Production of size-selected Cu_xSn_1-x nanoclusters

Composites of copper-tin (Cu_xSn_1-x) nanoclusters were synthesized using the magnetron dc sputtering gas-condensation technique. Targets with controlled ratios of Sn to Cu were used to produce Cu _xSn_1-x with different compositions. The effects on the nanocluster size and yield of the sputtering discharge power, inert gas flow rate, and aggregation length were investigated using a quadrupole mass filter. The sputtering discharge power was optimized to maximize the nanocluster yield. The results show that as the inert gas flow rate increases the nanocluster size increases and then decreases. These dependences could be understood in terms of the dominant nanocluster production mechanisms. This work demonstrates the ability of controlling the Cu_xSn_1-x nanoclusters' size and composition by optimizing the source operation conditions.