Multiple modes of laser-induced pattern formation in nanoscopic Co films

Dewetting instabilities in nanoscopic Co films, induced by uniform multiple ns pulse laser irradiation, leads to a system of nanoparticles with robust spatial order. On the other hand, irradiation by non-uniform laser intensity, such as with a two beam laser interference pattern generates a quasi two-dimensional pattern of nanoparticles possessing long range order (LRO) and short range order (SRO). Here we discuss the various instabilities that are responsible for the production of these dissimilar patterns and length scales on the basis of their time scales. For the case of single beam irradiation, the film progresses in a manner that can be attributed to classical spinodal dewetting. Pattern formation from interference irradiation is the result of time scale-based selection of competing processes, which can be chosen by controlling the film thickness. This approach promises a simple and cost-effective means to self-assemble various nanostructures.