The size dependence of twin formation energy in cubic SiC at the nanoscale, while the bulk value was nearly zero, was studied. Atomic edges surrounded the twin boundary of SiC nanowires, and they were responsible for the finite twin formation energy and its size dependence. Based upon classical molecular statics calculations, the average formation energy of convex and concave edges was 73meV/nm. In effect, the twin formation energy was inversely proportional to the length of the edges surrounding the twin boundary. The present results made it possible to understand the large separations of twin boundaries in SiC nanowires.

Size Dependence of Twin Formation Energy in Cubic SiC at the Nanoscale. Y.Zhang, H.W.Shim, H.Huang: Applied Physics Letters, 2008, 92[26], 261908