Stress-driven surface topography evolution in nanocrystalline Al thin films

Stress-assisted grain growth at room temperature is identified as a plastic deformation mechanism in nanocrystalline thin films. Unique surface relief is attributed to the direct application of stress-coupled grain boundary migration theory. The figure shows a false-color SEM image of surface topography and an AFM height profile as a result of stress-assisted grain growth. A strategy for tailoring the mechanical properties of nanostructured metals is shown.