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Field desorption of lithium fluoride

Journal Article · · Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology, A (Vacuum, Surfaces and Films); (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1116/1.579394· OSTI ID:6450461
;  [1]
  1. Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131 (United States)

Layers of lithium fluoride (LiF), [similar to]10 nm thick, were field desorbed from iridium substrates at temperatures between 25 and 600 [degree]C. The electric field was increased until desorption of the salt layer occurred. Combined mass spectroscopy and field desorption microscopy characterized the desorption process. During desorption, ions of the form (LiF)[sub [ital n]][center dot]Li[sup +], [ital n]=1--4 are created. The field strength required for desorption is higher at lower temperatures and decreases as the temperature of the substrate is increased. Evidence for a piecewise removal of the LiF layer is presented. For thick salt layers, Li[sup +] ions are frequently detected. An ion production mechanism based on ionic conduction of a salt layer in a high electric field is presented.

OSTI ID:
6450461
Journal Information:
Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology, A (Vacuum, Surfaces and Films); (United States), Journal Name: Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology, A (Vacuum, Surfaces and Films); (United States) Vol. 13:2; ISSN 0734-2101; ISSN JVTAD6
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English