What Are Nanowires?
Nanowires are one-dimensional structures with diameters in the nanometer range and lengths that can extend to micrometers. Their unique properties, such as high surface-to-volume ratio and quantum effects, make them ideal for applications in electronics, sensors, and energy storage.
Applications of Nanowires
- Electronics: Transistors, diodes, and interconnects for ultra-small devices.
- Photovoltaics: Enhanced light absorption in solar cells.
- Sensors: High-sensitivity detection of gases and biomolecules.
- Quantum Computing: Components in qubits and quantum circuits.
- Optoelectronics: LEDs, lasers, and photodetectors.
- Energy Storage: Electrodes for batteries and supercapacitors.
Substrates Used for Nanowire Fabrication
- Silicon (Si): Compatible with CMOS technology and widely used in electronics.
- Sapphire (Al₂O₃): Ideal for high-temperature and optoelectronic applications.
- Graphene and 2D Materials: Enable flexible and transparent nanowire devices.
- Silicon Carbide (SiC): Suitable for high-power and high-frequency devices.
- Gold (Au): Acts as a catalyst for controlled nanowire growth.
- Flexible Polymers: Used in wearable and bendable nanowire devices.