Our latest collaborative study, conducted by our researchers Paul Smith, Sam Lodge, and Andrew Chew, has been published in the prestigious AVS journal.
 

The article, titled "Evaluation of the pumping performance of combinations of Ti–Zr–V–Hf alloy nonevaporable getter coatings with different morphologies, activation protocols controlled at cryogenic temperatures," highlights Edwards' leading-edge research in nonevaporable getter (NEG) coatings.

In this study, our team explored the pumping performance of various Ti–Zr–V–Hf alloy NEG coatings, focusing on how different morphologies and activation protocols impact their effectiveness. The research highlights the superior performance of dual-layered Ti–Zr–V–Hf alloy coatings, particularly in achieving higher sticking probabilities for gases like H2 and N2 at cryogenic temperatures -a breakthrough that holds significant implications for the R&D sector.

A key part of the study involved testing the NEG-coated samples using an advanced test rig equipped with Edwards nEXT85H turbomolecular pumps (TMPs) and an Edwards nXDS15i scroll pump. This setup ensured optimal base pressure conditions, enabling accurate measurement of sticking probabilities and terminal capacities at UHV levels.

The results demonstrated that dual (columnar layer on the dense layer) coatings significantly enhanced sticking probabilities, particularly for H2 and N2. Our pumps played an essential role in maintaining the precise vacuum conditions required for these tests, affirming their reliability in high-performance applications.