Site selective nucleation on surfaces: the rate equation model compared with VT-STM experiment of Co on Au(788)

Hetero-epitaxial growth on patterned surface is a promising way to improve the size distribution of clusters compared to homogeneous growth. Moreover, the use of a self-organized surface provides 2D long range ordered growth such as ordered growth of Co on Au(788). Using variable temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (VT-STM) we have identified an ordered growth regime for a 65-300K temperature range. We compare our experimental results with a rate equation model for the growth on a surface which contains traps. This allows us to explain the different growth behavior versus temperature. In particular, we give an interpretation of the high temperature behavior. Then we discuss the influence of different atomistic mechanisms on the organization. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved