Structure map for embedded binary alloy nanocrystals

Abstract

The equilibrium structure of embedded nanocrystals formed from strongly segregating binary alloys is considered within a simple thermodynamic model. The model identifies two dimensionless interface energies that dictate the structure and allows prediction of the stable structure for any choice of these parameters. The resulting structure map includes three distinct nanocrystal morphologies: core/shell, lobe/lobe, and completely separated spheres.