Modelling surface restructuring by slow highly charged ions
arXiv:1209.5526 · doi:10.1016/j.nimb.2013.01.046
Abstract
We theoretically investigate surface modifications on alkaline earth halides due to highly charged ion impact, focusing on recent experimental evidence for both etch pit and nano-hillock formation on CaF2 [A. El-Said et al, PRL 109, 117602 (2012)]. We discuss mechanisms for converting the projectile potential and kinetic energies into thermal energy capable of changing the surface structure. A proof-of-principle classical molecular dynamics simulation suggests the existence of two thresholds which we associate with etch pit and nano-hillock formation in qualitative agreement with experiment.
Accepted in proceedings of IISC-2012 (NIM B)