Student training and education:

1. Research using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy at BSUDmitri A. Tenne, Boise State University, DMR 0722699 • The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) system at BSU has been used in various research projects: • Identifying the composition and oxidation states of CuInS2 nanoparticles for novel solar cell applications (collaboration with researchers from Idaho State University) • Nanocomposites formed by fluorescent dye fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and ZnO nanoparticles have been studied. XPS data indicate bonding between Zn2+ in ZnO with FITC, which is believed to be responsible for observed enhanced photoluminescence of FITC in nanocomposites, an important advantage for FITC applications as fluorescent label in biotechnology. • Identification of chemical state of Co doped in SnO2 films, CeO2 nanoparticles, Ce oxidation states in bulk composite materials, impurity phase detection and quantification of elements in SrOMoO3 alloys. XPS spectra of CuInS2 nanoparticles in Cu 2p and In 3d regions, indicating different Cu and In oxidation states in various samples. XPS spectra of ZnO- organic fluorophore FITC composite nanoparticles, showing bonding between Zn2+ in ZnO with FITC.

2. Using the XPS instrumentation for student training and outreachDmitri A. Tenne, Boise State University, DMR 0722699 • Student training and education: • - several undergraduate and graduate students have been actively involved in research projects using the XPS system at BSU. • - XPS instrumentation has been used in Materials Characterization Lab class, where science and engineering undergraduates obtained practical knowledge of this advanced instrument. • - data obtained with the XPS system have been used in the educational purposes, e.g. in “Physical methods of materials characterization” course. • Outreach activities: BSU Physics Department organized a two-day workshop “Modern physics experiments: from simple to sophisticated” for high school physics teachers from Boise metropolitan area. A demonstration of XPS system and its use in interdisciplinary research at BSU was a part of this workshop aimed at increasing awareness of high school students of Boise area about exciting educational and research opportunities in physical sciences and at BSU. Undergraduate physics student Joshua Anghel prepares for an XPS experiment on ZnO nanoparticles.