Structural transformations of InP(001) surfaces

Structural transformations of InP(001) surfaces over a wide range of temperature and surface stoichiometry have been investigated. (1×1)- and (2×1)-reconstructed surfaces are formed under phosphorus-rich conditions, which transform to a (2×4)-reconstructed form when annealed in vacuum at above 570 K. A new intermediate (2×2)/c(2×4) surface structure is identified during the transformation from (2×1) to (2×4). Both the (2×4) and the (2×2) forms of reconstruction are proposed to involve a first layer of mixed InP dimers and a second layer consisting of 50% phosphorus and 50% indium.