Three-dimensional atomic structure of NiO-ZrO₂(cubic) interfaces

The three-dimensional atomic structure of low-energy NiO-ZrO₂(cubic) interfaces is determined through a combination of electron imaging and spectroscopy techniques. High resolution electron microscopy, and Z-contrast STEM imaging with simultaneous electron energy loss spectroscopy are employed as complementary techniques for elucidating the structural and chemical aspects of the interface and associated interfacial relaxation mechaubic) interface. The planar interfaces show an atomically abrupt transition between the two phases which share a common oxygen plane at the boundary. Structural relaxations accommodating the lattice mismatch indicate that the boundary has relaxed to a low-energy configuration. The resulting interface structure is found to facilitate strong bonding across the boundary as is reflected in the fracture behavior of the composite system.