Abstract

Although the theory of high-angle elastic scattering of fast electrons is well developed, accurate calculation of the incident-energy threshold and cross section for surface-atom sputtering is hampered by uncertainties in the value of the surface-displacement energy E d and its angular dependence. We show that reasonable agreement with experiment is achieved by assuming a non-spherical escape potential with E d=(5/3) E sub, where E sub is the sublimation energy. Since field-emission sources and aberration-corrected TEM lenses have become more widespread, sputtering has begun to impose a practical limit to the spatial resolution of microanalysis for some specimens. Sputtering can be delayed by coating the specimen with a thin layer of carbon, or prevented by reducing the incident energy; 60 keV should be sufficiently low for most materials.

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 call

Disclaimer: 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.