Abstract
Basic factors governing surface segregation in "size-factor" intermetallics are introduced and applied to the case of Mg segregation in MgNi2 thin films reported recently. The calculations, based on a Braggs-Williams-type approximation, are in agreement with the experimental results, and indicate a preferential population of surface Ni antisites by the larger Mg atoms from the nearby underlayers. The resultant increase in the equilibrium concentration of Mg with temperature is associated with entropy-driven enhancement of compositional disorder at the surface region of the intermetallic compound.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | L53-L57 |
Journal | Surface Science |
Volume | 418 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 5 Dec 1998 |
Keywords
- Alloys
- Equilibrium thermodynamics and statistical mechanics
- Surface segregation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Surfaces and Interfaces
- Surfaces, Coatings and Films
- Materials Chemistry