arXiv · 2412.05729
Constant di/dz Scanning Tunneling Microscopy: Atomic Precision Imaging and Hydrogen Depassivation Lithography on a Si(100) - 2 x 1 : H Surface
Abstract
We introduce a novel control mode for Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) that leverages di/dz feedback. By superimposing a high-frequency sinusoidal modulation on the control signal, we extract the amplitude of the resulting tunneling current to obtain a di/dz measurement as the tip is scanned over the surface. A feedback control loop is then closed to maintain a constant di/dz, enhancing the sensitivity of the tip to subtle surface variations throughout a scan. This approach offers distinct advantages over conventional constant-current imaging. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique through high-resolution imaging and lithographic experiments on several Si(100)-2x1:H surfaces. Our findings, validated across multiple STM systems and imaging conditions, pave the way for a new paradigm in STM control, imaging, and lithography.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
Richa Mishra, S. O. Reza Moheimani. 2024-12-07. Constant di/dz Scanning Tunneling Microscopy: Atomic Precision Imaging and Hydrogen Depassivation Lithography on a Si(100) - 2 x 1 : H Surface. https://arxiv.org/abs/2412.05729
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.