A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study of Liquid Metal Targets Using the Embedded Atom Method

Abstract

A molecular dynamics digital simulation was used to investigate the sputtering yields from both liquid and solid metal targets. The system consisted of 1.0 keV Argon ions bombarding Rhodium targets. The embedded atom method of calculating potentials was used with a modified Moliere/Morse potential function. The yields from the solid and liquid targets were compared with the liquid showing a slightly higher yield than the solid. The liquid was simulated by random displacements of the atoms from a solid crystal lattice. Changing the seed, used by the random number generator to produce the liquid, effected the sputtering yield similar to moving the impact point. Four different sampling methods were investigated which produced similar results. Hence, the models described in this thesis should provide a basis for general sputtering simulations of liquids. Simulation, Molecular dynamics, Liquids, Embedded atom method, Theses.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1988
Accession Number
ADA201659

Entities

People

  • Michael L. Fisher

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • California
  • Computer Simulations
  • Crystal Lattices
  • Crystal Structure
  • Crystals
  • Ion Bombardment
  • Liquid Phases
  • Materials
  • Materials Science
  • Mathematical Models
  • Melting Point
  • Metals
  • Models
  • Molecular Dynamics
  • Physics
  • Random Number Generators
  • United States

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

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  • Thin Film Deposition Science.