NANOWIRES FORMED IN ANODIC OXIDE NANOTEMPLATES

A simple electrochemical method is described for producing metal or semiconductor nanowires with diameters in the continuous range 10 to 200 nm. The technique involves a three-step process that begins with the electrochemical generation of an aluminum oxide template with uniform nanometer-sized pores, followed by the deposition of metal or semiconductor in them. The nanowires are then exposed for study or device fabrication by etching back the oxide matrix. Examples; of cadmium nanowires fabricated by this technique are shown.