Experimental studies of small particle structures

Abstract

Data on the experimental structure of small particles is reviewed, the emphasis being an attempt to correlate experimental information with theoretical models. First, a general discussion of some of the controlling factors is presented, primarily equilibrium shapes of small particles, the effect of surface stresses, kinetics, and the role of chemisorption and the substrate. Experimental techniques for obtaining information about small particles are then described, primarily electron microscopy approaches. Experimental data on the static structure of small particles is then reviewed, both single crystals and the many, complicated twinned structures in face-centred cubic materials. An overview is then given of some of the more recent results on dynamic phenomena in small particles. Finally, a general model merging thermodynamic and kinetic factors is presented to attempt to rationalize the available data, followed by a brief discussion.