Work

Mesoscopic scale study of lateral dynamics of Sn intercalation of the graphene buffer layer on SiC

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: 1. Abstract The dynamics of Sn intercalation of the buffer layer (BL) on SiC was investigated with a frozen-in diffusion front using Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy. The technique allows to laterally distinguish between intercalated regions and the pristine BL. Comparing topography features with the contact potential difference on the mesoscopic scale confirms a significantly higher diffusion barrier close to surface steps relative to the terrace. The results show a distinct locally confined mechanism for the material flow from terrace to terrace on the vicinal substrate surface. Nucleation and the formation of Sn intercalated phases occur preferentially at step edges. This results in a mesoscopic growth against the macroscopic diffusion direction.

Source: Carbon

DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2025.120711

Authors: Benno Harling, Zamin Mamiyev, Christoph Tegenkamp, Martin Wenderoth

Institutions: University of Göttingen, Chemnitz University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Graphene research and applications

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,830

Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft