TEM-Characterization of metallic nanoparticles embedded in sol-gel produced glass-like layers

Size and shape of metallic nanoparticles, which are embedded in sol-gel produced glass-like layers, are able to influence the optical properties of coatings on glass. Since the shape of the particles is determined by its crystalline structure, and the structure is modified significantly during the particle growth, the development of both was observed in dependence on the stage of growth appliying conventional and high resolution electron microscopy. These investigations carried out on Au and Ag particles have revealed different types of colloidal growth, a real structure often formed by dislocations and twins as well as a relatively high particle mobility