Electroplastic Effect in Metals

摘要

That an electric current can produce a directed transport of atoms in a metal has been known for some time, having been first observed over a century ago by Geradin who found that segregation of the components of a liquid solder occurred when it was subjected to a direct current. Since that time, biased transport of atoms by an electric current has also been clearly established in solids, both in the bulk form and as thin films the phenomenon being termed electromigration. Although it has been recognized since the early 1960's that the conduction electrons in a metal can exert a drag on dislocations moving therein, it is only recently becoming clear that an electric current (drift electrons) can enhance the mobility of dislocations. Reprints. (JES)