Study of ZnO Nanowire Growth Mechanism
Author Information
Author(s): Kar Ayan, Low Ke-Bin, Oye Michael, Stroscio Michael A, Dutta Mitra, Nicholls Alan, Meyyappan M
Primary Institution: University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
Hypothesis
The study investigates the nucleation mechanism and tapering observed in ZnO nanowire growth using the carbothermal reduction technique.
Conclusion
ZnO nanowires grow from molten Au–Zn clusters, with tapering of diameter along the axis due to changes in the catalyst droplet at the tip.
Supporting Evidence
- The average rate of decrease in nanowire diameter is found to be 0.36 nm/s.
- The growth rate of the nanowires is estimated to be 3.9 nm/s.
- Tapered nanowires were produced using the carbothermal reduction method in a furnace.
Takeaway
The researchers looked at how tiny wires made of zinc oxide grow and found that the shape of the catalyst at the tip affects how thick or thin the wires become.
Methodology
The study used a carbothermal reduction process to grow ZnO nanowires with gold colloids as catalysts.
Limitations
The study may not provide accurate estimations of wire dimensions due to sample preparation methods.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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