In situ observation of oxidation of liquid droplets of tin and melting behavior of a tin particle covered with a tin oxide layer.

Oxidation of a liquid droplet of tin (Sn) was observed using an in situ specimen heating holder in an oxygen environment. The surface of the Sn liquid droplet was covered with a tin oxide layer, Sn3O4, the thickness of which depended on the oxygen pressure and temperature. Subsequent cooling of the droplet resulted in the formation of a solid Sn particle covered with a Sn3O4 layer. The solid Sn particle was then heated above the melting temperature of Sn, and the melting behavior of Sn was observed. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.