Ion bombardment induced smoothing of amorphous metallic surfaces: Experiments versus computer simulations

Sebastian Vauth and S. G. Mayr
Phys. Rev. B 77, 155406 – Published 4 April 2008

Abstract

Smoothing of rough amorphous metallic surfaces by bombardment with heavy ions in the low keV regime is investigated by a combined experimental-simulational study. Vapor deposited rough amorphous Zr65Al7.5Cu27.5 films are the basis for systematic in situ scanning tunneling microscopy measurements on the smoothing reaction due to 3keV Kr+ ion bombardment. The experimental results are directly compared to the predictions of a multiscale simulation approach, which incorporates stochastic rate equations of the Langevin type in combination with previously reported classical molecular dynamics simulations [Phys. Rev. B 75, 224107 (2007)] to model surface smoothing across length and time scales. The combined approach of experiments and simulations clearly corroborates a key role of ion induced viscous flow and ballistic effects in low keV heavy ion induced smoothing of amorphous metallic surfaces at ambient temperatures.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 20 January 2008

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.77.155406

©2008 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Sebastian Vauth* and S. G. Mayr

  • I. Physikalisches Institut, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany

  • *svauth@gwdg.de
  • smayr@gwdg.de

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 77, Iss. 15 — 15 April 2008

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review B

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×