Field Ion Microscopy of the Platinum Metals

Platinum, iridium, rhodium and palladium are among the few metals that may be examined by field ion microscopy, in which it is possible to magnify the image of a prepared surface so that individual atoms are revealed. This technique, by which such factors as plastic deformation, gas adsorption, fatigue, dislocation structure and the effects of impurities can be examined, may well lead to a better understanding of the valuable properties shown by the platinum metals in their catalytic, electrochemical and high temperature applications.