Characterization of submicron-sized CO2 clusters formed with a supersonic expansion of a mixed-gas using a three-staged nozzle

Abstract

The size of CO2 clusters, produced in a supersonic expansion of a mixed-gas of CO2/He or CO2/H2 through a three-staged conical nozzle designed based on the Boldarev's model, has been evaluated by measuring the angular distribution of light scattered from the clusters. The data are analyzed utilizing the Mie scattering theory, and the sizes of CO2 clusters are estimated as 0.22 μm and 0.25 μm for the cases of CO2/He and CO2/H2 gas mixtures, respectively. The results confirm that the Boldarev's model is reliable enough for the production of micron-sized clusters.