Calculation of the electromigration wind force in Al alloys

The electromigration wind force in various Al alloys is calculated using a Green's-function method for the calculation of the electronic structure. Th e influence of the environment of the jumping atoms is studied in detail in the AI-Cu alloy. Alloys of Al with 3d and 4sp alloying elements are studie d systematically in order to investigate the relation between the electroni c states of the alloying atom and the wind force. The study also includes s everal other alloys, which have been used in the past in attempts to increa se electromigration lifetime. It is shown that the wind force on an Al host atom can be changed considerably by the presence of an alloying atom at pa rticular positions near the jump path. This could be an additional contribu tion to the well-known decelerating effect of some alloying elements on ele ctromigration in Al. [S0163-1829(99)01112-1].