Propulsion of Ripples on Glass by Ion Bombardment

P. F. A. Alkemade
Phys. Rev. Lett. 96, 107602 – Published 17 March 2006

Abstract

The propulsion of surface ripples on SiO2 by an ion beam was investigated by in situ electron microscopy. The observed propagation of the ripples contradicts existing models for ion-beam-induced ripple development. A new model based on the Navier-Stokes relations for viscous flow in a thin layer is introduced. It includes inhomogeneous viscous flow, driven by spatial variations in the deposition of the energy of the ion beam. The model explains the observed reversed propagation. The hitherto unknown propulsion mechanism is important for understanding nanoscale pattern formation by ion bombardment.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 25 August 2005

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.96.107602

©2006 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

P. F. A. Alkemade

  • National Center of High Resolution Electron Microscopy and Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Lorentzweg 1, 2628 CJ Delft, The Netherlands

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 96, Iss. 10 — 17 March 2006

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review Letters

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×