Exciting new publication from the Center for Bright Beams in The Journal of Physical Chemistry C!

“Key Morphological and Chemical Features of Anodized Nb Relevant for Sn Nucleation in Nb₃Sn Growth” examines why preanodizing niobium improves tin nucleation during the growth of Nb₃Sn coatings—a promising material for next-generation superconducting radiofrequency cavities.

Using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, kinetic modeling, and density functional theory calculations, the researchers found that anodized niobium retains a more stable Nb₂O₅ layer and a rough, porous surface during heating. These features may help promote tin nucleation and stabilization, providing valuable insight for optimizing Nb₃Sn coatings and advancing SRF cavity performance.

Congratulations to authors Van Do, Jasper Brown, Liana Shpani, Cristóbal Méndez, Helena Lew-Kiedrowska, Tomas Arias, Matthias Liepe, and Steven Sibener!

Read the article: https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.6c04768

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