Metallic Nanowires and Nanotubes Prepared by Template Replication

Abstract

Low dimensional nanostructures represent a hot scientific field nowadays due mainly to the tremendous potential for applications. Low dimensions open the possibilities for both ultra-miniaturization and increase in functionality. Numerous procedures were developed for fabricating such nanostructures. Template replication represents a highly effective method in fabricating metallic nanowires and nanotubes. The approach is characterized by the excellent control in obtaining nano objects with the desired shape and dimensions. A large variety of templates are available ranging from viruses and proteins to nanoporous membranes fabricated by using swift heavy ion accelerators. In the following chapter the main steps involved

Magnetism and magnetoresistance of single Ni–Cu alloy nanowires

“…In a magnetic monodomain with uniaxial anisotropy, the magnetization reversal canb be described using the Stoner–Wohlfarth model [ 29 – 30 ]. Thus, if the field is applied along the easy axis (EA), the magnetization changes steeply its orientation along the EA at a switching field proportional to the anisotropy constant and inversely proportional to the spontaneous magnetization.…”

Characterization and properties of micro- and nanowires of controlled size, composition, and geometry fabricated by electrodeposition and ion-track technology

“…Recently, Duan et al presented an exhaustive investigation of the preferred orientation of Cu nanowire arrays, demonstrating that their preferred crystallographic orientation can be adjusted along the [111], [100] or [110] directions by selecting specific parameters with respect to the sulphuric acid concentration in the electrolyte, the applied voltage, and the deposition temperature [72]. It was also reported that single-crystalline Cu microwires were grown under room-temperature conditions by using commercial baths and reverse-pulse plating in an ultrasonic bath in a two-electrode arrangement [73].…”

“…In contrast, wires grown in a solution of potassium dicyanoaurate(I) (Puramet 402 bath, gold content = 10 g/L, Doduco, Pforzheim, Germany) yield single crystals at temperatures between 50 and 65 °C under both direct-current and reverse-pulse deposition conditions. The resulting single-crystalline wires have a preferred [110] orientation.…”

“…Multilayered nanowires reported so far include the following material combinations: Co/Cu, NiFe/Cu, CoNi/Cu, Ni/Cu, Ni/Au, AgPt, Co/Pt, and Fe/Cu [107–109]. In addition metal–semiconductor–metal junctions, such as Ni–ZnO–Ni and CdTe–Ni, were electrodeposited [110]. …”