Fanlike aggregations on seeds by parallel ballistic flux: Experimental results and Monte Carlo simulations of the growth of three-dimensional Si structures

Abstract

Previously, it was shown by theories and computer simulations that intriguing fanlike aggregations on a seed could be created from a parallel ballistic flux under a highly nonequilibrium condition. In this paper, we report the creation of such fanlike structures on small size ($\ensuremath{\sim}150\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{nm}$ in diameter) cylindrical seeds using a thermal evaporation technique. Monte Carlo simulations, based on a ballistic aggregation model with surface diffusion, were employed to quantitatively describe the characteristics of the fans, including the overall shape of the fans, fan angle, and surface profile of the fans. Our experimental results were also compared with the theoretical predictions reported previously.