Nanoscrews: Asymmetrical Etching of Silver Nanowires

World's smallest screws with helical threads are synthesized via mild etching of Ag nanowires. With detailed characterization, we show that this nanostructure arises not from the transformation of the initial lattice, but the result of a unique etching mode. Three-dimensional printed models are used to illustrate the evolution of etch pits, from which a possible mechanism Is postulated.