Laser-initiated microchemistry in thin films: Development of new types of periodic structure.
01 January 1985
Decomposition of Au metallopolymer thin films induced by a scanning cw Ar(+) laser leads to metallic features that, under a broad range of experimental conditions, exhibit marked periodic structure. Preliminary mechanistic studies point to a thermal decomposition pathway in which the heat released in the exothermic reaction drives the reaction front ahead of the laser- irradiated area. The spatial period is determined by laser power, scan speed, and film thickness.