Crystallography polycrystalline surfaces

Atomically resolved STM studies require preparation of a flat surface with well-defined crystallography. Studies to date have focused on either singlethin film noble metal electrodes. The haditional approach to single-crystal preparation involves growing an ingot or boule by solidification from a melt using a seed crystal to control the orientation. Alternatively, a remarkably simple and inexpensive technique has been developed whereby a H2-O2 flame is used to melt the end of a polycrystalline... 

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