Research Initiation: Nucleation and Growth of Metal Oxide Clusters in a Free Jet

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This is an experimental study of the nucleation and growth of nanometer sized metal oxide particles from the rapid expansion of supercritical aqueous solutions through a nozzle. Initially silicon dioxide solutions will be studied followed by zirconium and yttrium oxide solutions. Transmission Fourier Transform spectroscopy will be used to characterized the molecular precursors to the particles and particle size will be determined by Rayleigh scattering along the beam axis. The research should yield important scientific information on nucleation and particle growth under markedly different conditions than studied heretofore. It offers a novel process for producing fine particles of controlled size and composition for possible synthesis of ceramics, superconductors, or catalysts.