Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the use of fluorescence signals obtained by selective optical excitation to detect and monitor a species present during a flow reaction or decomposition of various reactants. These reactions were analyzed in situ using a tunable laser as a selective excitation source in combination with a reactor inducing such reactions with a diffusion flame or a plasma. The resultant spectra and analysis presented herein demonstrates the detection of new compositions like SiHF in the gas phase. The invention allows for pinpoint spatial probing of the reactor without perturbing the reaction. Thus, a deposition process can be controlled by monitoring a selected species and adjusting the deposition reaction parameters in response to the species' mere detection or relative concentration.

Abstract: The present invention provides a coating for electrodes for use in electrochemical cells having an electrochemically active species and an electrolyte. The coating includes a selectively permeable material which allows for the diffusion of the active species through the coating during operation of the cell while providing a substantially impervious barrier to the electrolyte. Electrodes utilizing the coatings described herein may be used in primary and secondary cells over a wide range of operating temperatures to deliver better electrochemical performance even at room temperature. Methods of making the coating and an apparatus for performing these methods on a continuous basis are included in the present invention. A novel composition of matter also is contemplated containing lithium, silicon, fluorine prepared by exposing lithium metal to SiF.sub.4.

Abstract: Disclosed is an optical data storage device and a method of making the device. The device has a thin film of a multi-component, phase changeable, chalcogenide material. The thin film is prepared by vacuum deposition of a substantially non-convecting, multi-component, chalcogenide containing first source. The multicomponent source is converted to a non-condensed state, and the non-condensed material is deposited onto the substrate to form a deposit having substantial source/deposit compositional equivalence and the substantial absence of concentration gradients.

Abstract: A dispersion imaging material, such as tellurium, which disperses upon the absorption of energy above a certain threshold is provided in the form of a thin, continuous film, preferably on a substrate. Energy, in the form of a pulse, is applied to the continuous film in a pattern, which includes a plurality of regions, in an amount and for a length of time sufficient to cause dispersion of the dispersion imaging material simultaneously in all those regions which receive the energy. Preferably, the energy is applied through an imaging mask to produce a duplicate of the image. Sensitizing materials advantageously can be employed to form an indigenous mask on the dispersion imaging material. In addition, dispersion promoting materials can be utilized to enhance and accelerate the formation of a stable image. In the preferred embodiment of the method, the dispersion imaging material is carried on a substrate having a low heat conductivity.