In-situ fabrication of three dimensional nickel nanobeads by electron beam induced transformation

We report an in-situ transmission electron microscope method for the fabrication of three dimensional nickel nanobeads. Conversion of nickel fluoride into a three dimensional porous, partially fluorine depleted aggregate is shown as intermediate state, followed by transformation into metallic beads. The bead size ranges from 10-600 nm and can be controlled via materials thickness and beam intensity. The material is found sensitive for the formation of nickel dots, rings and lines by focused exposure with various beam shapes.