posted on 2023-09-18, 18:44authored byDavid
C. Grinter, Bobbie-Jean A. Shaw, Chi L. Pang, Chi-Ming Yim, Christopher A. Muryn, Charlotte A. Hall, Francesco Maccherozzi, Sarnjeet S. Dhesi, Masahiko Suzuki, Tsuneo Yasue, Takanori Koshikawa, Geoff Thornton
Nanoscale interconnects are an important component of
molecular
electronics. Here we use X-ray spectromicroscopy techniques as well
as scanning probe methods to explore the self-assembled growth of
insulated iron nanowires as a potential means of supplying an earth
abundant solution. The intrinsic anisotropy of a TiO2(110)
substrate directs the growth of micron length iron wires at elevated
temperatures, with a strong metal–support interaction giving
rise to ilmenite (FeTiO3) encapsulation. Iron nanoparticles
that decorate the nanowires display magnetic properties that suggest
other possible applications.