Dr. Arsène Chemin
Science, Research & Communication
“Using light and colors to unravel the invisible and build a better future”
Passionate about my work, this website enables me to present my research as well as communicating on my work, what I do, why I do it, and explaining my research tools such as the synchrotron.
Last Publication
Did you know diamonds could revolutionize quantum sensing technology? 💎🔬 But achieving near-perfect surfaces is key. Our work introduces a novel model for energy-dependent X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, enabling atomic-level depth profiling of surface chemistry. Excitingly, we uncover the formation of graphene-like islands! But the excitement doesn't end there. Our analysis using X-ray absorption spectroscopy unveils the position of unoccupied surface states within the diamond bandgap, offering more insights into stabilizing near-surface NV− centers.
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When measuring X-ray absorption and photoemission spectroscopy, it can be important to anneal under vacuum the diamonds, that is to say to heat them (up to a few hundreds of degree Celsius), in order to remove molecules from the surface. Here, the sample holder glow red because of its high temperature. Otherwise, the measurement can be wrong. For instance, when probing the oxygen atoms, one has to be sure that no water remains on the surface.
Next to come
MRS Spring Meeting— 22-26 April 2024 — Seattle, USA
I will present an overview of my latest research on understanding diamond electrodes. I'll discuss photocurrent characterization of the interface, along with X-ray absorption spectroscopy of nanodiamonds in water. This work reveals the intricate interaction between surface states of diamond termination and the electrolyte, and how it impacts the energy structure of the junction, the photoexcitation of the diamond, the production of solvated electrons, and redox reactions.
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Team's news
Take a look at our perspective article! Nanointerfaces can be difficult to investigate due to the extreme bulk to surface ratio. While most conventional spectroscopic techniques fail, strategies can be implemented to tackle this challenge. In our team, we develop new techniques such as in operando X-ray and IR spectroscopy or surface photovoltage.
Petit, T., Lounasvuori, M., Chemin, A., & Bärmann, P. (2023). Nanointerfaces: Concepts and Strategies for Optical and X-ray Spectroscopic Characterization. ACS Physical Chemistry Au.