Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for the formation of gradient layers on substrates in a vacuum chamber by means of which the gradient layers having increased efficiency and reduced residual ripple of the surface can be-obtained. The solution according to the invention is then designed such that at least one plasma source or by means of evaporation a particle current is directed upon the surface of the substrate to be coated within the vacuum chamber. A mask having discretely arranged perforations is disposed between a particle source and the substrate. The mask has a constant thickness and is allowed to be oscillatorily moved by means of a drive along at least one axis with respect to the substrate in a plane. The ratio of the free cross-sections of the perforations being discretely present within the mask, and of the, intermediate web surfaces varies 'per unit of area over the total surface or on areas of this mask.

Abstract: A pulsed laser deposition (PLD) process is used for forming a functional metal, ceramic, or ceramic/metal layer on an inner wall of a hollow body. Simultaneously with the deposition process, a thin-film laser treatment is carried out, whereby a laser beam impinges on the coating layer as it is being formed to achieve a rapid heating followed by a rapid cooling and solidification of the deposited coating layer. In this context, the energy and material flux densities are prescribed and controlled as a function of the spacing of the condensation region from the substrate surface. Laser pulses having an energy of 1 to 2 Joules and a pulse repetition rate of 10 to 50 Hz are used. The pulse duration as well as the residual gas atmosphere in the vacuum deposition chamber are controlled so that the generated plasma flux forms the desired layered grain structure, namely a glassy amorphous structure, a columnar structure, or a polycrystalline structure.

Abstract: A method for depositing a thin layer on a substrate by laser pulse vapor deposition provides a substantially cylindrical target having a cylinder axis and a curved target surface. A pulsed laser beam is generated having an initial path section and an initial path section axis and is capable of producing a plasma plume from the target when the pulsed laser beam impinges on the curved target surface. A first mirror located between the target and the initial path section of the laser beam is provided having a plurality of reflective interior surfaces and a first mirror axis substantially coincident with an initial path section axis of the laser beam. The laser beam is deflected so as to impinge on the reflective interior surface of the first mirror and subsequently to be reflected and to impinge on the curved target surface by controlling a plane reflective mirror that intersects the first mirror axis and is located on a side of the first mirror opposite from the target.

Abstract: A method for depositing a thin layer on a substrate by laser pulse vapor deposition provides a substantially cylindrical target having a cylinder axis and a curved target surface. A pulsed laser beam is generated having an initial path section and an initial path section axis and is capable of producing a plasma plume from the target when the pulsed laser beam impinges on the curved target surface. A first mirror located between the target and the initial path section of the laser beam is provided having a plurality of reflective interior surfaces and a first mirror axis substantially coincident with an initial path section axis of the laser beam. The laser beam is deflected so as to impinge on the reflective interior surface of the first mirror and subsequently to be reflected and to impinge on the curved target surface by controlling a plane reflective mirror that intersects the first mirror axis and is located on a side of the first mirror opposite from the target.