On the size distribution function of diamond nano-crystals grown on surfaces

Size distribution functions (SDF) of diamond nano-crystals are usually studied as a function of nucleus linear dimension (R). Nonetheless, R is not the natural variable because in any nucleation and growth model the employed geometric quantity is the particle volume. We have analyzed experimental SDF in terms of R3 instead of R. By comparing the standardized SDF a rather unitary behavior emerges, regardless of the growth technique. Moreover, we prove that the evolution of the early stage of diamond films is ruled by stretched exponential nucleation and linear growth. Finally, this kind of analysis makes it possible to understand whether the growth is due to diffusion or not.