The helium spin-echo method

Abstract

Helium spin-echo is a recently developed technique which enables surface dynamical processes, particularly diffusion, to be studied with atomic-scale precision over picosecond timescales. It yields a measurement of surface correlation with time, making possible a complete statistical description of the underlying dynamics. We describe the background to and implementation of the technique, followed by its application to adsorbate transport measurements. Finally, we look towards a wide range of future applications. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013.