On the restoration of Auger line shapes

A simple and efficient method to deduce the true Auger spectrum from the raw data is presented. This method is an application to Auger spectroscopy derived from signal processing procedures employed in different fields. It appears particularly promising when complex spectra are analyzed as it avoids spurious information to be introduced. The method is also compared with the more-standard van Cittert's approach. An experimental check of the common assumption that an Auger electron experiences almost the same energy-loss mechanisms as a nearly elastically reflected primary electron at the same energy is given.