Secondary electron emission and yield spectra of metals from Monte Carlo simulations and experiments

TL;DR

This paper introduces a Monte Carlo simulation method combining Mott and dielectric theories to accurately predict secondary electron emission spectra and yields of metals like copper, silver, and gold, validated by experiments.

Contribution

The work develops a novel computational approach integrating elastic and inelastic scattering models for precise electron emission predictions in metals.

Findings

Excellent agreement between simulations and experimental spectra

Effective modeling of secondary electron generation

Validated method for multiple metals

Abstract

In this work, we present a computational method, based on the Monte Carlo statistical approach, for calculating electron energy emission and yield spectra of metals, such as copper, silver and gold. The calculation of these observables proceeds via the Mott theory to deal with the elastic scattering processes, and by using the Ritchie dielectric approach to model the electron inelastic scattering events. In the latter case, the dielectric function, which represents the starting point for the evaluation of the energy loss, is obtained from experimental reflection electron energy loss spectra. The generation of secondary electrons upon ionization of the samples is also implemented in the calculation. A remarkable agreement is obtained between both theoretical and experimental electron emission spectra and yield curves.