2D AND 3D THIN-FILM FORMATION AND GROWTH MECHANISMS IN METAL ELECTROCRYSTALLIZATION - AN ATOMISTIC VIEW BY IN-SITU STM

Different nucleation and growth mechanisms (Volmer-Weber, Frank-van de r Merwe, and Stranski-Krastanov) have been found to operate in electro crystallization and ultra-thin film formation of metals, Me, on foreig n substrates, S, where 2D UPD Me adlayers on S can act as precursors f or the subsequent nucleation and growth. Modern techniques, particular ly in situ STM with lateral atomic resolution, give direct insight int o the initial steps of the formation of 2D UPD Me adlayers, thin Me fi lms, and 3D Me bulk phases.