City Research Online

Abstract

The epitaxial growth of a range of amino acids deposited from the vapour phase onto alkaline halide substrates has been studied. An unexpected interaction of some of these deposits with atmospheric water was discovered and the physical parameters influencing this phenomena were defined.

A simple electrostatic point charge model for explaining epitaxial behaviour has been extended to accommodate more complex substrate surfaces. The extended model has been used to examine the epitaxial amino acid deposits together with the results from a comparative study of the behaviour of glycine and anthraquinone overgrowths on sodium chloride, mica and quartz substrates.

The concept of long range forces, arising as a result of electrical inhomogeneity within the bulk substrate, being capable of influencing epitaxial growth has been extensively investigated. The existence of structure in the previously considered amorphous interfacial barriers was inferred from Low Energy Electron Diffraction and Auger Electron Spectroscopy. Resulting from these observations a new theory of long range transmission of forces effecting epitaxial growth has been formulated.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	Q Science Q Science > QD Chemistry
Departments:	School of Science & Technology School of Science & Technology > School of Science & Technology Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

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