Strain induced adatom correlations

A Born-Green-Yvon type model for adatom density correlations is combined with a model for adatom interactions mediated by the strain in elastic anisotropic substrates. The resulting nonlinear integral equation is solved numerically for coverages from zero to a limit given by stability constraints. W, Nb, Ta and Au surfaces are taken as examples to show the effects of different elastic anisotropy regions.Results of the calculation are shown by appropriate plots and discussed. A mapping to superstructures is tried. Corresponding adatom configurations from Monte Carlo simulations are shown.

► This paper evaluates adatom density correlations induced by substrate mediated elastic interactions. ► The Born-Green-Yvon model is used and a 2-dimensional non-linear integral equation is numerically solved. ► Metals as substrates are chosen as examples. ► Coverage dependent pair distribution functions are shown. ► Contour plots for the numerically limiting coverage are shown. ► Corresponding adatom position samples are calculated with a Monte Carlo simulation. ► Context with stress domains established