Scattering effects and damping of electrons in Pt(1Â 1Â 1) and Cu(1Â 1Â 1)

► In this study we use the DEPES method to reveal the crystalline structure of Cu(1 1 1) and Pt(1 1 1), as well as to investigate the mechanism of electron scattering along the [1 1 1] direction and damping of electrons in crystalline samples. ► Both experimental and theoretical approaches were used. The later is based on the multiple scattering (MS) formalism. ► We conclude that the characteristic pattern observed along the [1 1 1] direction originate from the so called ring focusing effect as a consequence of the collective scattering of primary electrons by atoms located around the three fold symmetry axis. ► Different relative intensity values obtained in experimental and theoretical DEPES distributions are rationalised by the inelastic mean free path, which can have an anisotropic character.