Dynamic phenomena at (110) surfaces, which occurred as a result of thermal annealing, were monitored by means of  in situ  reflection electron microscopy. The motion of screw dislocations across the surface was observed at temperatures above 550C; thus resulting in the formation of new surface steps. Thermal dissociation led to the desorption of P, with the consequent visible growth of In particles at 650C. At first, most of the In particles grew with a hemispherical shape and a linear rate of expansion. Later changes in growth rate were associated with changes in the particle shape. Three distinct particle shapes were observed at the end of annealing; thus suggesting a departure from self-similar growth. Cooling to room temperature, and ambient annealing under an ultra-high vacuum, led to significant changes in the particle morphology.

M.Gajdardziska-Josifovska, M.H.Malay, D.J.Smith: Surface Science, 1995, 340, 141-52