Single-crystalline tungsten nanoparticles produced by thermal decomposition of tungsten hexacarbonyl

Nanometer-sized particles of W are of interest in semiconductor device research, where such particles may store electrons inside heteroepitaxially defined structures. In this paper, we present results concerning W particles produced by thermal decomposition of tungsten hexacarbonyl. By the described method, it was possible to produce size-selected, single-crystalline W particles in the size range between 15 and 60 nm. The sintering behavior of the particles was studied between ambient temperatures and 1900 degrees C. The particle morphology and structure were examined with high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and electron diffraction techniques. Particles sintered at the highest temperatures typically were single crystals, with well-developed facets. Some problems concerning a yield reducing charging mechanism sue discussed.