A Model And Simulation Of The Decay Of Isolated Nanoscale Surface Features

We describe the decay of isolated features (circular islands) on generic surfaces through models and simulations. A continuum model based on the Gibbs-Thomson relation is presented which provides the framework for understanding the time evolution of isolated nanoscale islands on surfaces. The assumptions of the continuum model are tested through Monte Carlo simulations of island decay and are found to be valid down to very small island sizes. Quantitative comparisons are made between the results of the simulations and the continuum model, providing insights into the relationship between continuum and microscopic parameters.