Real-time observation of nanosecond liquid-phase assembly of nickel nanoparticles via pulsed-laserHeating

Authors

J. T. McKeown
Nicholas A. Roberts, Utah State UniversityFollow
J. D. Fowlkes
Y. Wu
T. LaGrange
B. W. Reed
G. H. Campbell
P. D. Rack

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

Langmuir

Volume

28

Issue

49

Publication Date

2012

First Page

17168

Last Page

17175

Abstract

Using pump-probe electron microscopy techniques, the dewetting of thin nickel films exposed to a pulsed nanosecond laser was monitored at tens of nanometers spatial and nanosecond time scales to provide insight into the liquid-phase assembly dynamics. Thickness-dependent and correlated time and length scales indicate that a spinodal instability drives the assembly process. Measured lifetimes of the liquid metal are consistent with finite-difference simulations of the laser-irradiated film and are consistent with estimated and observed spinodal time scales. These results can be used to design improved synthesis and assembly routes toward achieving advanced functional nanomaterials and devices.

Recommended Citation

J.T. McKeown, N.A. Roberts , J.D. Fowlkes, Y. Wu, T. LaGrange, B.W. Reed, G.H. Campbell a nd P.D. Rack, Real-time observation of nanosecond liquid-phase as sembly of nickel nanoparticles via pulsed-laser heating, Langmuir, 28 , 49, 17168-17175, 2012.