One-dimensional (1D) assemblies of nanoparticles are a burgeoning area of research due to their potential in electronics, photonics and sensing applications. They are also the focus of academic study, as they provide a link between the nanoscale world and meso-or macroscale objects. Despite their potential application in a variety of optoelectronic, electronic, photonic and magnetic applications, 1D assemblies of nanoparticles have not been as thoroughly studied or reviewed as their 2-and 3D counterparts. This review presents an overview of the methods used to prepare 1D arrays of metallic nanoparticles, covering both templated and template-free methods. The unique properties they possess are discussed, along with existing and predicted applications. The review finishes by addressing the current challenges facing the field of research and practical applications of 1D nanoparticle arrays.

A simple chemical route to fabricating highly linear, well‐aligned and unbranched one‐dimensional arrays of silver nanoparticles with ultra‐high aspect ratios is demonstrated. Starting with a polydisperse nanoparticle material, the application of ultrasound was found to promote digestive ripening and induce a thiolate‐driven self‐assembly process. The assembly method discovered has been extended to other systems, with initial findings showing the successful templating of gold nanoparticles into chains using Cu(I)‐thiolates. This opens the possibility of a generic route which can be applied to many nanoparticle systems.