Ion Irradiation-Induced Sinking of Ag Nanocubes into Substrates

Ion irradiation can cause burrowing of nanoparticles in substrates, strongly depending on the material properties and irradiation parameters. In this study, it is demonstrated that the sinking process can be accomplished with ion irradiation of cube-shaped Ag nanoparticles on top of silicon; how ion channeling affects the sinking rate; and underline the importance of the amorphous state of the substrate upon ion irradiation. Based on these experimental findings, the sinking process is described as being driven by capillary forces enabled by ion-induced plastic flow of the substrate. Ion irradiation causes nanoparticles to sink into substrates, influenced by material properties and irradiation specifics. This study reveals nanoparticle shape doesn't dictate sinking. Ion channeling and substrate's amorphous state play crucial roles. Sinking is driven by capillary forces, facilitated by ion-induced substrate plasticity.image