Atomic imaging of oxide surfaces. I. General features and surface rearrangements

Surface profile images from a number of oxides have been obtained using high-resolution electron microscopy. Atomic-level details of the surface topography such as steps and terraces are clearly visible and, with the aid of image viewing and recording systems, cation redistributions on oxide surfaces can be followed in real time. Electron irradiation is shown to have different effects on the surfaces of different oxides. Transition metal oxides appear to desorb oxygen, effectively leading to "metallisation" of the surface, whereas holes are etched in alumina and nickel oxide, and surface rearrangements are the predominant effects seen in rare earth oxides.