The p(2×3) reconstruction on Mo(112): Its precursor and the stepwise formation process. (August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Yaqin; Zhao, Xiaofei; Bao, Xue; Liu, Zun; Zhang, Mengyao; Ma, Teng
• Is Part Of: Vacuum. Volume 190(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-08
• Subjects: Mo(112) surface -- p(2×3) reconstruction -- Low dimensional oxide -- STM -- XPS; Vacuum -- Periodicals; 621.55
• DOI: 10.1016/j.vacuum.2021.110288
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0042-207X

Abstract

Abstract: The p (2 × 3) reconstruction on Mo (112) surface has been kept as an unresolved problem since two decades ago because of its structural complexity. The formation process of the p (2 × 3) reconstruction was explored by using STM and XPS methods and there is a critical precursor status that divides the total process into two consecutive steps at lower oxidation temperatures. The p (2 × 3) precursor could be achieved when surface Mo atoms experience a mild oxidation to form a mixture of dispersed particles and one-dimensional structures at 605 K in 5.0 × 10 −8 mbar O2 . While at an elevated temperature of 710 K in 5.0 × 10 −8 mbar O2, the low dimensional oxides would be reduced and replaced to result in a two-dimensional structure, i.e. the complete p (2 × 3). Our results could not only give a reasonable explanation about the reported contraries between good quality STM images and streaky LEED points of the p (2 × 3) reconstruction, but also show that the p (2 × 3) precursor is related to the p (1 × 3) reconstruction, which might be the imperfect p (2 × 3) reconstruction. Highlights: The p (2 × 3) reconstruction on Mo (112) surface occurs as a stepwise process of oxidation and reduction. A critical precursor of the p (2 × 3) reconstruction has been found by using STM and XPS. The precursor is related to the p (1 × 3) reconstruction, which might be the imperfect p (2 × 3) reconstruction.