Field-induced transfer of lithium in a scanning tunneling microscope

Field-induced transfer of Li atoms from a [110]-oriented W tip to a Pt sample is realized in the scanning tunneling microscope (STM) under UHV conditions, using a working principle of the new solid state Li surface diffusion metal ion source (Li-SDMIS), in which the supply of Li to the apex of the tip occurs via surface diffusion. By applying 5–10 μs voltage pulses to the Li-covered W tip placed within tunneling range, single Li hillocks (400 × 400 Ų) were formed on the chosen area of the Pt(110) sample in a well-rep way. The pulse magnitude necessary for Li emission displays a distinct threshold character. A comparative analysis of the energetics of Li field desorption in the STM and Li-FDM (lithium field desorption microscope) modes indicates chemically-assisted field desorption of Li as the field-induced transfer mechanism.