Growth of Metallic Nanowires on Nanoporous Alumina Templates: Nanocomb Structures

We present a novel nanostructure, metallic nanocomb structures, electro-chemically self assembled on nanoporous alumina templates. Gold and silver nanowires between 5-15 nm have been produced through the ordered nano-scale pores of alumina templates prepared by anodization of aluminum foils. These ultrathin nanowires prefer growing in the inner surfaces of the hexagonal pores in alumina, resulting in the nanocomb structure with remarkable long-range hexagonal close packed order, similar to those found in the nanoporous template. We report here the typical processing conditions and microstructure of this novel material as observed with SEM and EDX. We also provide preliminary field emission data, and indicate possible applications for which they can make remarkable impact.