Mass spectrometric analysis of clusters formed in laser ablation of a sample

Experimental data are used as a basis for discussion of the principal methods of cluster formation in the laser ablation of targets: condensation during expansion of the cloud of evaporated material, clustering at the surface accompanying redeposition of material back on the target, and emission of entire nanoblocks from the target. Methods of distinguishing between these processes are discussed. Zh. Tekh. Fiz. 69, 81–84 (September 1999)