The process of molecular plating and the characteristics of the produced thin films - What we have learned in 60 years and what is still unknown

Molecular plating is a well-established and widely used method for producing thin films of various elements, which are used in variety of nuclear physics applications. Sixty years have passed since the method was established, and some insights into the chemical process underlying the method and the composition of the thin films have been gained. A brief overview of what has been learned about molecular plating since its introduction and the methods applied in the characterization of molecular plated thin films is given here. Through various spectroscopic and microscopic methods, the process of molecular plating and the chemical composition are gradually being elucidated, albeit we still do not understand all aspects.