| EPSRC Reference: |
GR/H83003/01 |
| Title: |
SURFACE PLASMON ENHANCED LASER ABLATION OF METAL FILMS |
| Principal Investigator: |
Dawson, Dr P |
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| Department: |
Sch of Mathematics and Physics |
| Organisation: |
Queen's University of Belfast |
| Scheme: |
Standard Research (Pre-FEC) |
| Starts: |
07 December 1992 |
Ends: |
06 December 1994 |
Value (£): |
95,619
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
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In a pilot study we have demonstrated conclusively that excimer laser ablation of thin Al films is significantly enhanced if the incident UV laser radiation couples to surface plasmons (SPs) on the film; a decrease in the ablation threshold by up to a factor of ~ 10 has been noted. This project seeks to build on our initial studies by performing a comprehensive characterisation of the process as a function of wavelength and the type of metal and overlying oxide or dielectric. Furthermore the essential mechanism of SP enhanced ablation will be addressed by UHV studies of the spectroscopy and kinetics of the ablation plume species, in conjunction with assessment of the surface morphology of the thin metal films. The results of these studies will be fed into a theoretical/computational analysis of thin film optical absorption and energy dissipation in order to assist with an understanding of the process. Finally, it is proposed to demonstrate thin film patterning using SP enhanced ablation, with particular reference to magnetic thin films and fine period (< 200 nm) metal grating surfaces. The potential and limitations of SP enhanced ablation in relation to patterning will be assessed.
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Key Findings |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Impacts |
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| Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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| Project URL: |
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| Further Information: |
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| Organisation Website: |
http://www.qub.ac.uk |