Ni + B2H6: Spectroscopic observations on NiB and NiH

An electronic spectrum of the nickel monoboride radical has been observed for the first time, in a reaction between a nickel plasma and diborane. Numerous bands of 58Ni10B and 58Ni11B have been recorded between 442 and 503 nm in laser-induced fluorescence (LIF). Dispersed fluorescence experiments have also been performed. The LIF spectrum is dominated by a strong progression of bands of a [19.7]2Σ+–X2Σ+ transition. Analyses have been carried out to yield the following 58Ni11B ground state parameters: r0 = 0.1698 nm, ωe = 778 cm−1, ωexe = 4.9 cm−1. Strong signals from NiH have also been observed.