Laser ablation of metals in salts melts

Abstract Laser ablation of metallic targets (Au, Cu, Al) in salts melts (NaNO3, NaNO2, LiNO3) at temperature 300-350 °C is experimentally realized. Laser ablation is accompanied by plasma formation on the target surface. Solid nanocomposites of salts with metallic nanoparticles are characterized with the help of optical spectroscopy and X-ray diffractometry. Extinction spectra of nanocomposites reveal the presence of elongated Au nanoparticles. XRD analysis confirms the presence of metallic Au in nanocomposites.