Abstract
HF etches silicon oxide, removes metal impurities and completely terminates the silicon surface with hydrogen. The H-passivated Si surfaces are stable, but can be slowly and selectively etched in buffered HF solutions or in hot water, changing the initial morphology of the interface. Si(111) surfaces flatten, forming large, ideally H-terminated (111) planes. Si(100) surfaces roughen, ultimately developing H-terminated (111) facets.