Abstract
reconstruction is essentially a superlattice of magic (identical-size) nanoclusters. Using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) observations, we have found that under appropriate growth conditions up to 35% of these clusters can be modified; namely, two Si atoms in the cluster can be replaced by two In atoms, thus forming a cluster. This modification can be considered as a doping of the magic cluster, as it changes the electronic properties of the cluster from semiconducting towards metallic. The doped cluster is less rigid than the ordinary one and swings in the electrical field of the STM tip. The atomic structure and stability of the doped magic cluster have been examined using first-principles total-energy calculations.
- Received 12 March 2003
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.91.026104
©2003 American Physical Society