Novel examples of cluster-matter produced by LUCAS, a new laser cluster source

Abstract

We present experimental results obtained by a novel cluster source, LUCAS, based on laser ablation/evaporation of high cluster yield. Deposition rates of ≈ 10 nm/s can be achieved for a broad field of materials. Experiments on three different examples of cluster-matter are presented, (1) Iron clusters (2R = 20 nm) are embedded in fullerite and compared to silver clusters (2R = 2.6 nm) where previously static arid dynamic charge transfer has been detected [1]. (2) The chemical reactions of Y clusters (2R. = 16 nm) with hydrogen and oxygen exhibit reversible and non-reversible structural and electronic phase transitions. (3) Crystalline ITO clusters are produced in nanoporous optical films (thickness 190 nm) with high conductivity and good stability.