A novel ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling microscope for surface science studies

Abstract

A novel design of a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) for surface science studies is described. The STM is fully compatible with ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) and offers the possibility of performing individual STM scans over a large region of the sample surface (≃10 mm2). The sample coarse approach is realized by a fine pitch screw, which shifts two wedges against each other. In order to incorporate the STM in an UHV system for the standard preparation and analyzing techniques of surface science, a special sample holder and sample transfer system has been developed. For defined heating of the sample, disconnectable electrical wiring for both a resistively heated oven and a thermocouple has been integrated within the sample holder.