Static SIMS analysis of LB film multilayers. A sampling depth study

In this study, alternating layers of arachidic and behenic acids on optically smooth germanium substrates were examined by static SIMS. Information was obtained on the attenuation of molecular ion and substrate ion signals by LB films of the above mentioned fatty acids and their metal salts. Static SIMS analysis of alternating LB multilayers appears to be a good method for estimating the approximate depth from which molecular and quasi-molecular ions originate. As expected, the attenuation factors were greater for the more rigid LB films of fatty acid salts than for the fatty acids themselves.