Theory of inelastic lifetimes of low-energy electrons in metals

• Published in: Chemical physics Vol. 251; no. 1; pp. 1 - 35
• Main Authors: Echenique, P.M., Pitarke, J.M., Chulkov, E.V., Rubio, A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 2000
• Subjects: 72.30.+q; 78.20.-e; 71.45.Gm; 78.70.Ck
• ISSN: 0301-0104
• DOI: 10.1016/S0301-0104(99)00313-4

Electron dynamics in the bulk and at the surface of solid materials are well known to play a key role in a variety of physical and chemical phenomena. In this article we describe the main aspects of the interaction of low-energy electrons with solids, and report extensive calculations of inelastic lifetimes of both low-energy electrons in bulk materials and image-potential states at metal surfaces. New calculations of inelastic lifetimes in a homogeneous electron gas are presented, by using various well-known representations of the electronic response of the medium. Band-structure calculations, which have been recently carried out by the authors and collaborators, are reviewed, and future work is addressed.