Visualization of electron beam-induced desintering of nanostructured ceramics at the atomic scale

Mass diffusion and local tensile stress associated with electron beam irradiation can favor the desintering process. Here, we report the electron beam-induced desintering of ZrO2 thin films at the atomic scale with unprecedented spatial resolution using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Our results confirm earlier works in which desintering is driven by tensile stress acting on the bridge if an external stimulus, such as irradiation, triggers atom mobility. Additionally, we find departures from classical microscopic descriptions: a very stable nanobridge is formed and evolves until rupture with a constant dihedral angle instead of a brittle rupture. An adapted model for desintering at the nanoscale is proposed using the experimental findings. This work provides insights that may improve the knowledge of the rupture of ceramic materials at the nano and atomic scales, contributing to a better knowledge of materials’ behavior.