Aggregation characteristics of gold atoms deposited on molten glass surfaces

The diffusion, aggregation and crystallization characteristics of gold atom s deposited on molten glass surfaces are studied. Experimental results indi cate that the gold atoms first form a characteristic web-shaped Au film on the colloid glass surface,and the average diameter of the crystal grains in the film is about 20 nm. The area of the meshes gradually increases and th en the whole film tatters. Thus the compact clusters are formed. The satura ted diameter of the compact clusters is about 1.2 mum and its diffusion coe fficient D is of the order of 10(7)-10(8) cm(2)/s. The compact clusters dif fuse on the molten glass surface quickly and quasi-randomly,and finally lar ge ramified aggregates with diameter of about 50 mum from.