Abstract
The structure on the atomic and mesoscopic scale of Pb adsorbed on Si(557) has been investigated by high-resolution low energy electron diffraction (SPA-LEED). Depending on Pb coverage in the range between 1.2 and 1.6 monolayers (ML), formation of various facets [(112), (335), (223), and a meta-stable (557) orientation] is induced by the Pb layers. The facet orientation in general does not coincide with the macroscopic orientation of the (557) surface. After an initial annealing step to 600 K, starting with 1.2 ML of Pb, this new vicinality can be tuned gradually and reversibly even at temperatures below 180 K by further adsorption, but also by desorption of Pb. Superstructures of the Pb layers on the terraces were identified on the most stable (223) facets. Here parts of the devil's staircase and the stripe-incommensurate (SIC) phases known from Si(111) surfaces (Yakes et al 2004 Phys. Rev. B 69 224103) develop. A new mechanism for facet formation with different orientations, based on avoidance of step decoration by adsorbed Pb, is proposed.
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.
