Evolution of Far-From-Equilibrium Nanostructures Formed by Cluster-Step and Cluster-Cluster Coalescence in Metal Films

Abstract

Scanning tunneling microscopy experiments reveal the formation of a variety of geometrically exotic nanostructures following submonolayer deposition of Ag on Ag(100). These result from the diffusion of large Ag clusters, and their subsequent ``collision'' and coalescence with extended step edges, and with other clusters. Relaxation of these far-from-equilibrium step-edge configurations is monitored to determine rates for restructuring versus local geometry and feature size. This behavior is analyzed with lattice-gas model simulations to elucidate the underlying atomistic mass transport processes.