FROM FREE CLUSTERS TO CLUSTER-ASSEMBLED MATERIALS

In this paper the specific properties of free clusters and the formati on of new cluster-assembled materials using the low energy cluster bea m deposition (LECBD) technique are discussed. Recent results obtained for free clusters are summarized with special attention to new observe d structures. As for the specific structures and properties of cluster -assembled materials, two main aspects are specially emphasized : the memory effect of the free cluster properties leading to the formation of new phases and the effect of the specific nanostructure of the clus ter-assembled materials related to the random cluster stacking mechani sm characteristic of the LECBD. These effects and the corresponding po tential applications are illustrated using some selected examples : ne w diamond-like carbon films produced by fullerene depositions (memory effect) and grain effect on the magnetic properties of cluster-assembl ed transition metal films.