Thermodynamic approach to germination and crystal morphology - Effect of texture in thin film deposition - Application to chemical vapor deposition of diamond crystals

Following a rapid introduction about the capillary theory of nucleation, th e notions of surface free energy of chemisorbed facets, equilibrium crystal shape and wettability will be developed in the specific case of diamond cr ystals deposited by plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition. From only ge ometrical considerations, we will describe the formation and development of a fiber axis during diamond film thickening obtained by growth and coalesc ence of individual well-shaped diamond crystals. This approach will be quan tified by developing three-dimensional simulations.