The use of partial-pressure mass spectrometry in the study of the thermal desorption and oxidation of carbon and graphite

A partial-pressure mass-spectrometer system is described for measuring thermally desorbed species from solid surfaces. The system evaluates not only the ratio of masses present in the gaseous phase but also relates the specific mass (mg g–1 of solid) desorbed or decomposed during thermal treatment. The extension of the method to include oxidation studies is also described.