Interface structure of Ni nanoparticles on MgO (1 0 0): A combined HRTEM and molecular dynamic study

Ni clusters with an average size of 4 nm, supported on MgO micro-cubes were studied by high resolution electron microscopy (HRTEM) and image simulations by the multislice technique. Regular defects were evidenced in the metal clusters at the interface. Molecular dynamic calculations of a 4 nm cluster indicates the same type of defects.