Template-based electrodeposition and characterization of niobium nanowires

Template-based electrodeposition is a versatile technique for the fabrication of freestanding nanowires. However, nanowires of refractory metals, like niobium, have remained inaccessible via this technique due to preferential hydrogen evolution in aqueous solutions. In this work, we have developed a synthetic strategy for template-based electrodeposition of niobium nanowires using an ionic liquid. Optimal growth conditions have been determined using cyclic voltammetry. Structural characterization using transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction, and energy dispersive spectroscopy showed that the niobium nanowires were polycrystalline with an average grain size of 14 nm. The use of ionic liquid-based electrolytes for nanowire deposition could be expanded to other metals improving material quality due to their high stability, good conductivity, and wide electrochemical window.