Rotationally Anisotropic Second-Harmonic Generation Studies of the Structure and Thermal Stability of Cu(110),
Abstract
The microscopic structure and thermal stability of interfaces are of fundamental importance in determining a variety of materials properties. Order-disorder transitions on surfaces have recently received considerable attention in the scientific literature since the dynamics of such processes can impose fundamental limits on material performance at elevated temperatures. Many high-index (11 n) faces (where n>2) of single-crystal metal surfaces are known to undergo this type of phase-transition. By definition, roughening of an atomically clean surface consists of the proliferation of atomic steps by thermal means at a roughening temperature, TR, where the surface free energy for creation of a step becomes zero. An unresolved question of fundamental importance is whether the roughening temperature of a low-index (110) surface can be lower than the bulk crystal melting temperature. For high index faces, a less stringent definition of roughening involving the proliferation of kinks on the already present step rows that can meander randomly has been suggested.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 22, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADP007926
Entities
People
- Mark A. Hoffbauer
- Michael J. Zuerlein
- Victoria J. Mcveigh
Organizations
- Los Alamos National Laboratory