Based on ab initio calculations, we propose an atomic-scale path leading to the growth of a new layer on the rebonded-step reconstructed Ge(105) surface. We show that the nucleation of (001)-like dimers triggers the formation of low-energy adtrimers within the surface unit cell. The presence of adjacent trimers and the arrival of a further adatom initiate a fast kinetic process, allowing the perfect rebonded-step structure to be rebuilt. After repeating some of the calculations under compressive-strain conditions, we discuss position-dependent nucleation in (105) Ge pyramid on Si(001), finding solid theoretical justification for the experimentally observed preferential nucleation at the top of Ge islands, followed by fast step flow. © 2007 The American Physical Society.
Cereda, S., Montalenti, F. (2007). Atomic-scale modeling of next-layer nucleation and step flow at the Ge(105) rebonded-step surface. PHYSICAL REVIEW. B, CONDENSED MATTER AND MATERIALS PHYSICS, 75(19) [10.1103/PhysRevB.75.195321].
Atomic-scale modeling of next-layer nucleation and step flow at the Ge(105) rebonded-step surface.
MONTALENTI, FRANCESCO CIMBRO MATTIA
2007
Abstract
Based on ab initio calculations, we propose an atomic-scale path leading to the growth of a new layer on the rebonded-step reconstructed Ge(105) surface. We show that the nucleation of (001)-like dimers triggers the formation of low-energy adtrimers within the surface unit cell. The presence of adjacent trimers and the arrival of a further adatom initiate a fast kinetic process, allowing the perfect rebonded-step structure to be rebuilt. After repeating some of the calculations under compressive-strain conditions, we discuss position-dependent nucleation in (105) Ge pyramid on Si(001), finding solid theoretical justification for the experimentally observed preferential nucleation at the top of Ge islands, followed by fast step flow. © 2007 The American Physical Society.File | Dimensione | Formato | |
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