Dynamics of laser deposition of metals from the vapour phase on insulators

Laser deposition of metals from the vapour phase on insulator surfaces by the action of cw laser radiation is investigated theoretically. Changes in the surface morphology during deposition and the temperature dependence of the vapour medium are taken into account. It is shown that during the initial stage the deposit may be mushroom-shaped, whereas later it becomes rod-shaped. If a moving laser beam is employed, the deposit may assume the form of a series of rods (fibres) tilted relative to the substrate surface.