Aspects of this work were supported by the Office of Naval Research and the National Science Foundation.
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Research News
Template-Fabricated Gold Nanowires and Nanotubes†
Article first published online: 7 MAR 2003
DOI: 10.1002/adma.200390106
© 2003 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Additional Information
How to Cite
Wirtz, M. and Martin, C. (2003), Template-Fabricated Gold Nanowires and Nanotubes. Advanced Materials, 15: 455–458. doi: 10.1002/adma.200390106
- †
Publication History
- Issue published online: 7 MAR 2003
- Article first published online: 7 MAR 2003
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- Electrodes;
- Electroless deposition;
- Gold;
- Membranes, separation;
- Nanotubes, metal;
- Nanowires, metal;
- Templates, polymer
Gold nanowires and nanotubes are formed by the electroless deposition of Au onto a porous polymeric template. Short deposition times lead to nanotubes, whereas longer times lead to nanowire formation. Investigations into potential use as nanoelectrode ensembles (see Figure) and for chemical separation membranes are presented.
Abstract
Gold nanowires and nanotubes are prepared via electroless deposition of Au onto the pore walls of a porous polymeric membrane. The pores in the support membrane act as a template for the nanostructures. The support is a commercially available nanoporous polycarbonate filter with cylindrical nanoscopic pores. We have shown that by controlling the Au deposition time, Au nanotubes (short deposition times) or nanowires (longer deposition times) can be prepared. The gold nanowires and nanotube membranes can be utilized for nanoelectrode ensembles, molecular filters and as chemical switches.