Application of elnes to the characterization of divided mixed oxides

The application of Energy Loss Near Edge Structure (ELNES) analysis associated with the high spatial resolution of a Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope (STEM), has been evaluated for characterizing divided solids such as heterogeneous catalysts. Through the study of reference Co or Ni-based mixed oxides and using a fingerprint approach, it is shown that useful information on oxidation state and environment of 3d metals in nanometer sized particles can be gained from the analysis of the metal L,2,3 and oxygen К edges and low loss region. An example of application to an industrial type catalyst is discussed.