Heterogeneous formation of small aluminum clusters

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
We have previously reported that small aluminum clusters (Aln; n≤6) were observed in a free jet expansion through a graphite nozzle. The length and the diameter of that nozzle was 1.5 mm. The results of those experiments led us to postulate that the clusters formed as the result of a heterogeneous process. Experiments, utilizing a tungsten nozzle with a 1.5 mm length and diameter showed no cluster formation. Further, experiments using a graphite nozzle with a larger surface area (1.5 mm diam, 48.0 mm length) produced clusters with n≤10. These results are presented in support of a heterogeneous formation process.