Cylindrical silver nanowires: Preparation, structure, and optical properties

Cylindrical and pentagonal Ag nanowires (see Figure) are selectively prepared in amorphous carbonaceous sheaths via a controlled hydrothermal reaction. Results indicate that the amorphous coating layer is responsible for the cross-section symmetry selected synthesis. The distinctive optical properties measured fit well with the theoretical predictions, and applications in electronic nanodevices are envisaged.