Simulation of Lead Nanoislands Growth using Density Functional Theory

Growth of Pb on a clean vicinal Si(5 5 7) surface follows the Stranski-Krastanov scenario. Pb nanoislands are created after formation of a wetting layer (up to 3 ML in thick). The observed peculiar slab-like stacking morphology of the formed wedge-shaped Pb nanoislands is discussed in terms of substrate-induced strain, twin boundary formation and energy of the electron gas confined inside the island.