Ultrafast spectroscopy of metals

Abstract

Application of time-resolved femtosecond spectroscopy to the investigation of the ultrafast electron kinetics in metallic materials is reviewed. The main experimental techniques are presented and the results obtained on electron scattering processes discussed in bulk metals and nanoparticles, focusing on the energy redistribution processes (electron–electron and electron–phonon coupling) and electronic transport. Application of the femtosecond techniques to the investigation of the acoustic vibrations of metal films and nanoparticles is also presented.