J Phys Chem C Nanomater Interfaces
September 2024
Macroscopic properties of materials stem from fundamental atomic-scale details, yet for insulators, resolving surface structures remains a challenge. We imaged the basal (0001) plane of α-aluminum oxide (α-AlO) using noncontact atomic force microscopy with an atomically defined tip apex. The surface formed a complex ([Formula: see text] × [Formula: see text])±9° reconstruction.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFNatural minerals contain ions that become hydrated when they come into contact with water in vapor and liquid forms. Muscovite mica - a common phyllosilicate with perfect cleavage planes - is an ideal system to investigate the details of ion hydration. The cleaved mica surface is decorated by an array of K ions that can be easily exchanged with other ions or protons when immersed in an aqueous solution.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFMuscovite mica, KAl(SiAl)O(OH), is a common layered phyllosilicate with perfect cleavage planes. The atomically flat surfaces obtained through cleaving lend themselves to scanning probe techniques with atomic resolution and are ideal to model minerals and clays. Despite the importance of the cleaved mica surfaces, several questions remain unresolved.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF