First principles simulation of a ceramic/metal interface with misfit

The relaxed atomic structure of a model ceramic/metal interface, (222)MgO/Cu, is simulated, including lattice: constant mismatch, using first principles local-density functional Cheery plane wave pseudopotential methods. The 399-atom computational unit. cell contains 36 O and 49 Cu atoms, per layer in accordance with the 7/6 ratio of MgO to Cu lattice constants. The atomic layers on both sides of the interface warp to optimize the local bonding. The interface: adhesive energy is calculated. The interface electronic structure is found to vary appreciably with the local environment.