Size-Dependent Phenomena in Angle-Resolved Measurements of Submicron Sn Particle Scattering from a Molybdenum Surface

• Published in: Journal of physical chemistry. C 2022-01, Vol.126 (1), p.356-364
• Main Authors: Miller, Morgan E. C, Mezher, Michelle, De Dea, Silvia, Continetti, Robert E
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: C: Spectroscopy and Dynamics of Nano, Hybrid, and Low-Dimensional Materials
• ISSN: 1932-7447; 1932-7455
• DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.1c07603

Nanoparticle scattering dynamics play a critical role in a wide range of astrophysical, industrial, and ambient environments; however, experimental data to guide theoretical models that predict this behavior are lacking. The experiments reported here examine these phenomena using single mass-selected, charged, submicron solid tin particles covered with an oxide layer of ∼10 nm thickness that are accelerated with varying energies onto a highly polished molybdenum surface. The scattering angle and speed for each backscattering event were measured and analyzed, revealing notable size-dependent trends in the coefficient of restitution and onset of sticking and charge transfer over the range from 150 to 500 nm diameter. The experimental results are interpreted using a mechanical model of the measured impact behavior, extending particle scattering measurements into a new intermediate size range, important for understanding the transport of submicron tin particles. An empirical scaling rule is also presented that normalizes the size-dependent behavior in terms of the ratio of the incident kinetic energy and impact contact area.