X-ray absorption and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of a rhodium colloid

Transition metal colloids are potential precursors of heterogeneous catalysts with application to selective chemical reactions. Sample preparation techniques are described. Experimental details are given of the characterization of these often air-sensitive particles by X-ray photoelectron and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. First results obtained with both techniques for a Rh-colloid show that the metal is mainly present in the zerovalent chemical state. But the spectra indicate further chemical states of Rh which can be assigned to the outermost metal atoms of the colloid interacting with organic ligands or to the educt Rh-halides.