Mechanisms of surface nanostructuring of Al2O3 and MgO by grazing incidence irradiation with swift heavy ions

We experimentally discovered that Al2O3 and MgO exhibit well-pronounced nanometric modifications on the surfaces when irradiated under grazing incidence with 23 MeV I beam, in contrast to normal irradiation same ion beam no damage was found. Moreover, ions these two materials produce notably different structures: grooves surrounded nanohillocks vs. smoother, roll-like discontinuous structures of Al2O3. To explain results, detailed numerical simulations were performed. identified a presence surface inhibits recrystallization process, thereby preventing transient tracks from recovery, thus forming observable nanopatterns. Furthermore, difference viscosities molten states explains differences created nanostructures. Our results provide deeper understanding fundamental processes nanostructuring, potentially allowing for controlled production periodic