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Crystal plane orientation-dependent surface atom diffusion in sub-10-nm Au nanocrystals
Junnan Jiang1, Shufen Chu1,2, Yin Zhang3
1Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced High-temperature Materials and Precision Forming, State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
Science Advances
|May 24, 2024
Summary
Surface atom diffusion in gold nanocrystals was observed at the atomic level. Different crystal plane orientations exhibit distinct diffusion behaviors, impacting material stability and design.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Surface atom diffusion is crucial in nanostructured metals due to high surface-to-volume ratios.
- The atomic mechanisms governing surface diffusion remain poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the fundamental atomic mechanisms of surface atom diffusion in gold nanocrystals.
- To investigate the influence of crystal plane orientation on surface diffusion.
Main Methods:
- In situ atomic-scale observation using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM).
- Utilized a high-speed detection camera for real-time monitoring.
- Performed quantitative calculations to analyze diffusion behaviors.
Main Results:
- Observed pressure-driven atom diffusion in gold nanocrystals at room temperature.
- Identified distinct diffusion mechanisms for (001) and (111) crystal planes.
- (001) plane diffusion involves column-by-column movement and collective injection, forming surface dislocations.
- (111) plane diffusion shows direct atom movement without collective injection.
- Diffusion coefficient is higher for (111) plane compared to (001) plane, influenced by orientation and activation energy.
Conclusions:
- Crystal plane orientation significantly affects surface atom diffusion mechanisms and rates.
- Findings offer insights into diffusion-dominant morphology evolution in nanostructured metals.
- Results guide the design of nanostructured materials with improved structural stability.
