Au Alloy Formation with Sn–Pb or Sn–Zn Solder Nanoparticles

Structures of simultaneously evaporated Sn–Pb and Sn–Zn nanoparticles on amorphous carbon surfaces have been elucidated using a transmission electron microscope. Spontaneous alloy formations by the deposition of Au have been observed at room temperature on a clean particle surface. AuSn 2 , Au 3 Zn and AuPb 2 ordered alloys have predominantly been produced. It was also shown that the spontaneous formation of oxide film with the thickness of 5.0 nm order upon exposure to air prevents the alloy formation even with heating at 300°C.