Reconstruction of a Three Dimensional (3D) Atomic Image using Internal-Detector Electron Holography

Abstract

Investigation of the atomic structure in solid is essential for materials science. In order to analyze the local structures around the specific atoms by reconstructing a three dimensional (3D) atomic images under laboratory experiments, we propose a new method, which is termed “internal-detector electron holography”. The intensity variation of the characteristic X-ray as a function of direction of the incident electron beam forms an atomic resolution hologram around atoms emitting characteristic X-rays. We demonstrated the internal detector electron holography of a SrTiO₃ single crystal using a scanning electron microscope and Ge solid state detector. A 3D atomic image of SrTiO₃ was successfully visualized by a fitting-based reconstruction algorithm. The atoms of all of the elements are clearly seen at the theoretical coordinates without artifacts. This method has a great potential of various applications for materials and surface sciences.