| Abstract: | A method is developed for self-decoration with ion bombardment by which the surface structure of crystal samples is investigated. The existing surface structure of the objects, as well as the additionally developed structure after prolonged ion bombardment are visualized by this method. When using scanning electron microscopy the method allows multiple investigation of the sample or of one and the same parts of it respectively. The mechanism of the method is revealed by the results obtained in the performed experiments. It is proved that the crystal surface and its decoration depend on the peculiarities of the crystal structure and on the conditions of bombardment. By varying the conditions of ion bombardment the sensitivity of the method is considerably changed. |
