Mesoscaled Patterning In Nanostructured Thin Films/Silicate Glass Systems

Various nanostructured thin solid films on silicate based glass plates commonly used as substrates in contemporary vacuum technologies are studied. Evolution of mesostructured spiral and spiral crack patterns as a result of shrinkage or crystalliz4 tion processes is demonstrated. It is established that the surface hydrated layer of the glass is liable for the patterning observed. Evidence is presented supporting a mechanism of selforganization phenomena in the systems studied. It is found that nano-sized sol gel silica thin film can be successfully used as a model system of the surface hydrated layer. Comparison of different thin solid films on silicate glass plates shows contour and dimensional similarity of memory patterns thus pointing out the occurrence of a general phenomenon.