Solid State Division Progress Report for Period Ending September 30, 1999

Abstract

This report covers research progress in the Solid State Division from April 1, 1997, through September 30, 1999. During this period, the division conducted a broad, interdisciplinary materials research program in support of Department of Energy science and technology missions. The report includes brief summaries of research activities in condensed matter theory, neutron scattering, synthesis and characterization of materials, ion beam and laser processing, and the structure of solids and surfaces. An addendum includes listings of division publications and professional activities. Over the past two years, a number of important infrastructure improvements that will provide significant new research opportunities and unique capabilities for the division in neutron scattering and synchrotron x-ray research, electron microscopy, nanostructure fabrication, and theory have been pursued. A major upgrade of neutron scattering capabilities at the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR), including a high-performance cold source, new beam lines and guides, and new and upgraded instrumentation, is under way. These upgrades, together with the proposed Spallation Neutron Source at ORNL, will provide the nation with unsurpassed capabilities worldwide in neutron scattering. The division is also involved in the development of two synchrotron beam lines at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory, an upgrade of the Z-contrast scanning transmission electron microscope to sub-angstrom resolution, development of a unique laser molecular beam epitaxy laboratory, and acquisition of a 11-Gflop parallel computer. Theoretical progress has included new insights into thin-film and surface phenomena, highly correlated systems, many body effects, quantum dots, and simulation of laser ablation. Neutron scattering has seen continued growth in the scientific user program along with progress on a broad research front including superconductivity, magnetism, polymers and complex fluids, residual stress mapping, and improved instrumentation. Advances in materials synthesis and processing are reported for superconductors, thin-film batteries, thermoelectrics, nanocrystals, and optical materials. Ion, laser, and molecular beam processing research has led to new understanding and control of defects, heterostructures, and nanostructure and thin-film growth. Significant progress has been made in the understanding of electrons at surfaces and in the evolution of surface morphology. New insights have been revealed on interfaces using atomic resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy and on microstructural properties in the mesoscale regime using synchrotron x-ray scattering.