Energy loss of electrons travelling through cylindrical holes

Expressions for the energy loss due to interaction with surfaces experienced by fast electrons passing through holes drilled in a coated medium are derived within the framework of the classical dielectric theory. These expressions are evaluated for Al coated with alumina using experimental values of the dielectric constant ϵ(ω) of the different media. Retarded energy loss probabilities are derived and some applications are discussed. Deflection effects due to the image force acting on the particle are also analysed.The authors wish to thank Gipuzkoako Foru Aldundia, the Basque Country Government (Eusko Jaurlaritza) and the Spanish CAYIT for financial support.Peer reviewe