Laser-induced heterometallic phase deposition from solutions of supramolecular complexes

Heterometallic (Au–Cu) phase precipitation on the surface of soda-lime glass as a result of laser-induced chemical liquid phase deposition (LCLD) is demonstrated for the first time. The precipitation of heterometallic structures was carried out under Ar+ laser irradiation from the solutions of supramolecular complexes. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis showed that the deposits consist of both Au and Cu. Morphology of the deposited structures was found to be dependent on the used solvents: delocalized sparse surface structures in the case of the dichloromethane solution, close packed nanoparticles for the dimethyl formamide and homogeneous phase with nano-pores for the acetone solution. In accordance to the SEM photos and scan EDX analysis the homogeneous heterometallic phase with fixed Au/Cu ratio was achieved for the acetone solution of supramolecular complex. The observed formation of the heterometallic phase was explained by the laser-initiated intramolecular reduction process of the supramolecular metal core.

► First time demonstration of Au–Cu laser-induced chemical liquid phase deposition.
► The deposited structures consist of homogeneous phase with fixed Au/Cu ratio.
► Metal deposition is a result of laser-initiated intramolecular reduction process.