Fabrication of Metal Nanowires

Abstract

This review article discusses and compares various techniques for fabricating metal nanowires. We begin by defining what we mean by a nanowire, and why such nanostructures are of scientific and technological interest. We then present different fabrication methodologies, describing in some detail the advantages of each. "Top-down" techniques discussed include: electron beam lithography; scanned probe lithography; step-edge and molecular beam epitaxy templating; and nanotube templating. "Bottom-up" methodologies covered include: electrodeposition into etched porous media; direct chemical synthesis; step-edge decoration; and strain-mediated self-assembly. We conclude by summarizing our observations and briefly discuss the future of metal nanowire fabrication.

16 pages, 10 figures. Submitted 3/2002, in press as Ch. 9 in "Recent Research Developments in Vacuum Science and Technology 2002", J. Dabrowski, ed., Research Signpost, ISBN: 81-7736-118-X