Self-assembled metallic nanoparticle template — a new approach of surface nanostructuring at nanometer scale

Abstract

In the present work, the formation of silver and copper nanostructures on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) modified with self-assembled gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) is demonstrated. Surface patterning with nanometer resolution was achieved. Different methods such as field emission scanning electron microscopy (FEGSEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to illustrate a selective deposition of silver and copper on Au NPs. The mechanism of silver and copper ions reduction on Au NP with n-dodecanethiol coating is discussed.

Keywords

• nanopatterning
• electrodeposition
• gold nanoparticles
• silver and copper deposits