Atomic-resolution images of radiation damage in KBr

The first steps of electron irradiation induced modification of a KBr(1 0 0) surface have been studied by dynamic force microscopy with atomic resolution. Rectangular pits of monatomic depth with not more than one kink site per pit have been found. The atomic structure of KBr(1 0 0) is preserved at the bottom of the pits. Possible deexcitation and desorption mechanisms are discussed based on these results. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.