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Capillarity-Induced Surface Morphologies

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Interface Science

Abstract

Surface energetics is reviewed including expressions for the chemical potential of a curved surface element and the Legendre transform relation between the projected surface free energy as a function of orientation and the Wulff equilibrium shape. A well known equation is derived describing surface evolution by surface diffusion, assuming local equilibrium. Solutions are reviewed including a decaying sinusoid and a developing thermal groove. Breakdown of local equilibrium is considered. The structure, energetics and dynamics of steps on a vicinal surface are discussed. Facet sizes on the Wulff shape and the surface profile at the edge of a facet are related to the step self and interaction free energies respectively. Fourier analysis of step fluctuations is described, revealing the underlying transport processes. Analysis of the decay of a sinusoidal profile on a vicinal surface in terms of step behavior is given. Finally, examples are reviewed of surface evolution below the roughening temperature T R in which case facets move by the lateral spreading of steps. Results differ greatly from those of the continuum theory applicable above T R.

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  1. Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA

    W.W. Mullins

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Mullins, W. Capillarity-Induced Surface Morphologies. Interface Science 9, 9–20 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1011258510496

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