Synthesis of Large-Area Silicon Nanowire Arrays via Self-Assembling Nanoelectrochemistry

Large-area silicon nanowire arrays have been prepared on a silicon wafer without the use of a template. The simple method, which can be carried out near room temperature, involves the nanoelectrochemistry of silver nanowires in an aqueous HF solution containing silver nitrate. This technique may be generally applicable to other semiconductors and metals. The Figure shows nanodendritic silicon wires.