First observation of light-controlled self-assembly of gallium nanoparticles with narrow size dispersion

Summary form only given. We report growth processes that control the shape and size of particles as they form, through non-thermal processes, using a low-power (/spl sim/ few mW) infrared diode laser. We study nanoparticle formation on the ends of optical fibers exposed to a gallium atomic-beam source under high vacuum. The results of the experiments and numerical modeling indicate that the growth of gallium nanoparticles in a laser-illuminated area is controlled through non-thermal laser-induced processes. We expect that by changing the deposition conditions (atomic beam flux, substrate temperature, etc.) and laser parameters (wavelength, power, etc.), the size, shape and spatial distribution of nanoparticles could be varied.