Dynamic Behaviour of Lead Nanoparticles in A Dielectric Matrix

In this paper we present electron microscopy results near and below the melting temperature, both in dark field and high resolution mode, of lead nanoparticles embedded in a dielectric matrix of amorphous SiOx. Three different size dependent regimes are distinguished. Indications of solid particles rotations as well as of a new phenomenon amenable to spontaneous solid-liquid phase fluctuations will be briefly discussed.