Atomic scale dynamics of ultrasmall germanium clusters

S. Bals (), S. Van Aert, C.P. Romero, K. Lauwaet, M.J. Van Bael, B. Schoeters, B. Partoens, E. Yücelen, P. Lievens () and G. Van Tendeloo
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S. Bals: EMAT-University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171
S. Van Aert: EMAT-University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171
C.P. Romero: Laboratory of Solid State Physics and Magnetism, KU Leuven
K. Lauwaet: Laboratory of Solid State Physics and Magnetism, KU Leuven
M.J. Van Bael: Laboratory of Solid State Physics and Magnetism, KU Leuven
B. Schoeters: CMT-University of Antwerp
B. Partoens: CMT-University of Antwerp
E. Yücelen: FEI Company, Europe NanoPort
P. Lievens: Laboratory of Solid State Physics and Magnetism, KU Leuven
G. Van Tendeloo: EMAT-University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171

Nature Communications, 2012, vol. 3, issue 1, 1-6

Abstract: Abstract Starting from the gas phase, small clusters can be produced and deposited with huge flexibility with regard to composition, materials choice and cluster size. Despite many advances in experimental characterization, a detailed morphology of such clusters is still lacking. Here we present an atomic scale observation as well as the dynamical behaviour of ultrasmall germanium clusters. Using quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy in combination with ab initio calculations, we are able to characterize the transition between different equilibrium geometries of a germanium cluster consisting of less than 25 atoms. Seven-membered rings, trigonal prisms and some smaller subunits are identified as possible building blocks that stabilize the structure.

Date: 2012
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms1887

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