ION-BEAM MIXING OF LA(OH)3/CU BILAYERS

The evolution of atomic composition, atomic depth distribution, and structural states of La(OH)3/Cu bilayers prepared by electron gun evaporation and submitted to ion beam irradiation is described. Chemical reactivity of La with O and H is evidenced in the initially deposited La/Cu bilayer, despite the fact that the pure La layer is coated with a thick Cu layer. Ion beam mixing with energetic Au ions, at 300 K and 700 K, results in breaking down the La-O-H bonds, while Cu atoms are knocked into the layer. There is a depth redistribution of the different atomic species, with formation of nonidentified phases. © 1990, Materials Research Society. All rights reserved.