Formation of porous silicon through the nanosized pores of an anodized alumina template

This letter demonstrates the ability to fabricate porous silicon through the nanoscale pores of an anodized alumina template formed on a silicon substrate. The alumina template acts as a protective coating on the porous silicon surface increasing its mechanical integrity, thus eliminating the need for delicate handling that is usually required for this material system. The optical properties of the porous silicon formed through the template show characteristics similar to that of normally formed porous silicon. In addition, the porous silicon optical properties show very little degradation with time; the alumina coating is believed to contribute to this improved stability. The results are significant and can increase the likelihood of commercial applications of this material. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.