Multisegmented one-dimensional hybrid structures of carbon nanotubes and metal nanowires

Multisegmented one-dimensional hybrid structures of carbon nanotubes and metal nanowires were fabricated using the alumina templates. Metal nanowires are first grown inside part of the nanochannel using electrodeposition technique, which is followed by the growth of carbon nanotubes using chemical vapor deposition. Well-adhered interfaces formed between the carbon nanotubes and the metal nanowires. The hybrid structure reported here results in nanoscale metal contact with carbon nanotube and will provide a solution to problem of using carbon nanotubes in interconnects. Nanotube-nanowire interfaces for different metals have also been examined and are characterized using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.