Impact-induced desorption of large molecular structures from graphitic substrates

Abstract

We use molecular dynamics computer simulation to show how the impact of a C₆₀ molecule on a graphite surface can cause an acoustic wave across the surface of the substrate that is strong enough to desorb a neighbouring C₆₀ molecule that has already been adsorbed. This could have potential implications for experimentalists attempting to grow fullerene-based structures on graphite-like materials using an energetic deposition technique. It suggests that unlike normal growth conditions, where sticking probabilities are the principle concern, an extra problem of deposition induced desorption may further slow a growth process.

Keywords:

• Computer simulation
• Fullerene deposition
• Graphite
• Growth process