Benchtop Nanoparticle Deposition System : NL50
The NL50 is a benchtop vacuum system that deposits ultra-pure, non-agglomerated nanoparticles onto surfaces up to 50mm in diameter. Designed for shared research or teaching labs, it supports various nanotechnology projects without cross-contamination.
The Benchtop Nanoparticle System using the Terminated Gas Condensation Technique is a compact, high-precision tool designed for the controlled deposition of pure and alloy nanoparticles. By rapidly cooling metal or alloy vapors in an ultra-high vacuum environment, this system produces non-agglomerated nanoparticles with precise size and composition control. Ideal for research and development, this system enables the creation of functional coatings and advanced materials for a wide range of applications, including catalysis, energy storage, photonics, and life sciences.
Key Features
- Deposit hydrocarbon free and non-agglomerated nanoparticles
- From sub-monolayer to high porosity 3-D nanocoating
- Surface plasma cleaning and functionalisation
- Generate pure metallic or compound nanoparticles such as oxides and nitrides.
- Wide choice of materials, including Ag, Au, Cu, Ni, Ir, and Pt
- Real time deposition control using a Quartz Crystal Microbalance(QCM)
- Repeatable process with typical cycle time of 30 minutes
- Room temperature deposition is compatible with delicate substrates such as graphene, membranes and plastics
Specifications
| Weight | Approx. 60Kg (113lbs) |
| Dimensions | (LXWXH) 70 x 50 x 60cm (27.6x 19.7 x 23.6 inches) |
Consumables
| Target size | 1inch (25.4mm) diameter, max 3mm thick |
| Max Sample Size | 50mm diameter |
| Materials | Conducting materials, including Ag, Au, Pt, Cu, Ni, Ti, Ir |
Control Software

The intuitive user interface is easy to use and does not require any previous vacuum experience. Preloaded deposition recipes enable users to start depositing nanoparticles straight away.
Highlights
- Full automation of the pump down and deposition sequence.
- Preloaded optimised deposition settings for common materials such as Au, Ag and Pt.
- Advanced users have the option to control deposition conditions to manipulate nanoparticle size and deposition rate according to their specific needs.
- Control nanoparticle loading using deposited weight or deposition time.
- Automated logging of all process and vacuum parameter.
NL50 'how-to' videos
5 Videos
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Publications
S. Aktas, S. Durdu, T. W. Bird, K. Ozcan, G. Yigitturk, S. L. Aktug, M. Usta, T. Acet, and A. Pratt https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c09046
C. Liu, A. Liu, Z. Zhou and C. Liu. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICSJ55786.2022.10034730
A. M. Lister, Y. Wang, B. I. Armitage, W. Li, and M. R. Castell https://doi.org/10.1088/2515-7639/adb337
