Rapid defect characterization: The efficiency of diffraction contrast-scanning transmission electron microscopy.

Defect information is critical for both fundamental research and industrial analysis of metals and semiconductors. Diffraction contrast is the basis for defect imaging using either X-ray or electron microscopy. Taking the advantage of high resolution in electron microscopy techniques, here we evaluate the efficiency for diffraction contrast imaging based on scanning transmission electron microscopy. The working principle and application are demonstrated using the typical semiconductor material silicon as an example. The efficiency is improved at least an order of magnitude compared with conventional electron microscopy method.