Real time observation of reconstruction transition on GaAs (111)B vicinal surface by scanning electron microscopy

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been applied to observe directly the {{{{ SQRT { 19} }}}}${\times}${{{{ SQRT { 19} }}}} and (1${\times}$1)HT reconstructions and the transition associated step bunching on the GaAs (111)B surfaces under As pressure. Close to the transition point, {{{{ SQRT { 19} }}}}${\times}${{{{ SQRT { 19} }}}}an d (1${\times}$1)HT reconstructions are observed in dark and bright domains by SEM and determined by micro-probe reflection high-energy electron diffraction (${\mu}$-RHEED). The reconstruction diagram shows hyster-esis. The stepped surface morphology during the reconstruction transition was unstable. Heavy step bunching with rough macrostep edges was observed.