Excitation of target Auger-electron emission by the impact of highly charged ions: N6+, O7+, and Ne9+ on Pt(110)

Abstract
We studied the interaction of highly charged ions on metal surfaces leading to the emission of electrons from the projectile and from the target. The target electrons are due to potential emission, kinetic emission, and Auger-electron emission. In our electron spectra two types of target Auger electrons are distinguished. Electrons near 135 and 220 eV are ascribed to Pt N45 O1 O23 and N45 N67V Auger transitions. They are caused by K-vacancy transfer into the Pt N shell and are only emitted under bombardment with N6+ and O7+. The other type of electrons near 40 and 60 eV are ascribed to Pt O23VV and N67VV Auger transitions. They are due to direct ionization and are emitted under bombardment with each projectile used. According to our analysis, the initial projectile K-shell vacancy survives the transport to and at least 8×1016 s within the target surface.