Scanning Probe Lithography of Dendrite-Like Nanostructures in Ultrathin Diamond-Like Nanocomposite Films

Dendrite-like structure growth in ultrathin diamond-like nanocomposite a-C:H,Si:O films have been studied in the course of electrically induced scanning probe lithography in the presence of a water adsorbate. The threshold magnitude of the electrical action is about 2 V, which is close to the potential of water electrolysis—1.23 V. The environment humidity crucially influences the growth of dendrite-like structures. Therefore, at a relative humidity of ~20%, hill-like protrusions occur, whereas, at a relative humidity of ~40%, some radially directed protrusions (ridges) appear and, at a relative humidity of ~60%, some branches arise from the ridges. It is established that the surface of the dendrite-like nanostructures is characterized by a higher friction force in the nanoscale when compared with the initial material under AFM testing. The growth mechanism and friction properties of the dendrite-like nanostructures are discussed.