A general template-based method for the preparation of nanomaterials

This article reviews a general template-based approach for the preparation of nanomaterials. The method involves the synthesis of a desired material within the pores of a nanoporous membrane. We have termed this approach 'template synthesis' because the pores within these nanoporous membranes act as templates for the synthesis of nanostructures of the desired material. Because the pores within these membranes are cylindrical and of uniform diameter, monodisperse nanocylinders of the desired material are obtained. Depending on the chemistry of the pore wall and material, these nanocylinders may be either hollow (a tubule) or solid (a fibril or nanowire). This template process will be shown to be a very general approach in the fabrication of nanotubes and fibrils composed of a variety of materials including polymers, metals, semiconductors, carbons, and other materials.