Temperature-dependent X-ray degradation in dicarboxylic acids: Insights from low-temperature XPS analysis

In this study, we investigate the effects of X-ray exposure on low-temperature samples of dicarboxylic acids - malonic acid, succinic acid, and glutaric acid - using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Unlike previous findings with powdered samples, where X-ray induced degradation was evident, the LT samples exhibited remarkable stability under X-ray irradiation. By maintaining the samples at cryogenic temperatures, we effectively mitigated the thermal degradation pathways that typically lead to decarboxylation and other chemical modifications. High-resolution XPS spectra acquired over extended periods revealed no significant changes in the chemical composition or binding energy states of the low-temperature samples, confirming their stability. This work highlights the critical role of temperature control in preserving the integrity of X-ray sensitive materials during surface analysis. Our findings provide a robust framework for conducting accurate and reliable XPS analyses on thermally labile compounds, offering valuable insights for researchers in surface science and materials characterization.