Abstract
The nature of the liquid-solid interface determines the characteristics of a variety of physical phenomena, including catalysis, electrochemistry, lubrication, and crystal growth. Most of the established models for crystal growth are based on macroscopic thermodynamics, neglecting the atomistic nature of the liquid-solid interface. Here, experimental observations and molecular dynamics simulations are employed to identify the 3D nature of an atomic-scale ordering of liquid Ga in contact with solid GaAs in a nanowire growth configuration. An interplay between the liquid ordering and the formation of a new bilayer is revealed, which, contrary to the established theories, suggests that the preference for a certain polarity and polytypism is influenced by the atomic structure of the interface. The conclusions of this work open new avenues for the understanding of crystal growth, as well as other processes and systems involving a liquid-solid interface.
Highlights
Understanding the nature of interfaces is key to determining and engineering their properties
While liquid–solid interfaces are fundamental to many applications and interactions, relatively little is known about them at the atomic level
We combine scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), atomic simulations using machine learning potentials and molecular dynamics (MD) to demonstrate, for the first time, the polaritydependent 3D nature of the liquid ordering at the solid interface
Summary
Understanding the nature of interfaces is key to determining and engineering their properties. We combine scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), atomic simulations using machine learning potentials and molecular dynamics (MD) to demonstrate, for the first time, the polaritydependent 3D nature of the liquid ordering at the solid interface.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
