A method for rapid crystal-surface characterization

Patterns of reflection of a visible light beam from chemically etched crystal surfaces were used to identify the crystal orientations at the surfaces. Aluminium and copper specimens with (100), (110) and (111) surface orientations were tested. The main advantage of the method appears to be the simplicity and effectiveness of the experimental procedure. The method makes possible the orientational control of crystal specimens to within less than 1°. Disordering and recrystallization effects induced on crystalline surfaces by ion bombardment were revealed by this method.