Three length scales are associated with nanotechnology: the order of 1 nm, tens of nm, and hundreds of nm. A multiscale nanomaterial can take advantage of the distinct properties of each simultaneously. Nanoparticles typically have dimensions within one or two length scales; e.g., a nanosphere with tens of nanometer diameter and 1 nm radius of curvature. Anisotropic nanoparticles can have features in all three scales but it is difficult to adjust one without affecting the properties of the others. A method was developed to independently control parameters such as particle size, particle shape, and pore size of nanoporous particles. A pyramidal shell contains intrinsic features spanning three orders of magnitude: the tip is of the order of 1 nm, the shell thickness is tens of nm, and the overall order size is of the order hundreds of nm. Photolithography based template fabrication controlled the size of the particle and metal deposition controlled the material, Au0.35Ag0.65, and shell thickness. The particle material was dealloyed to add pores, an additional feature of the order of 1 nm.

Nanoporous nanopyramids: Controlling multiple length scales in a single particle

246th National Meeting (2013)

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