Diamond nucleation on iridium: local variations of structure and density within the BEN layer

Abstract The diamond nuclei generated by the bias enhanced nucleation (BEN) on iridium are gathered in well defined areas (“domains”). In atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements they become manifest in a 1 nm downward step. The fine structure of the carbon layer inside and outside these domains has been studied by small spot Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), AFM and lateral force microscopy (LFM). The Auger spectra of the carbon KLL peak taken in an ultra high vacuum setup revealed diamond features inside and more graphitic features outside the domains. The comparison with the intensity of the Auger signal originating from the un…