Abstract
The growth of nanometer-sized spherical particles was observed after condensation of pure silicon vapor on a clean graphite surface. Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and scanning tunneling spectroscopy were performed on these silicon nanoparticles. The particles are arranged densely packed in perfectly flat layers and exhibit a very narrow size distribution. The tunneling current plotted versus the voltage between the STM tip and the sample (I–V curves) suggests an energy gap of these films of silicon particles of several eV. However, no ultraviolet photoluminescence could be observed in the visible. The particles can be swept from the surface by the scanning tip without reduction of the resolution of the STM. Thus, the coupling of the particles to the graphite can be expected to be weak.
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.
