Introduction Nanowires are currently of high interest due to their unusual properties at the nanoscale and a large range of potential applications. Specifically, silicon nanowires are of interest due to easy fabrication methods and versatile functionalization routes. This research aims for oxide-free functionalization of silicon nanowire arrays as versatile platform for wide-ranging applications. Experimental Silicon nanowire arrays were fabricated by combining nanoimprint lithography and metal-assisted chemical etching (Figure 1). The diameter of the wires depends on the mold, while the length can be tuned by varying the etching time. Subsequent surface functionalization was achieved via the hydrosilylation technique, in which organic compounds with unsaturated end groups are grafted onto silicon in an oxide-free way. Results and Discussion Silicon nanowires were fabricated with typical diameters of 200-400 nm and lengths of several micrometers. After metal removal, surface functionalization with several alkenes and alkynes was performed. XPS confirmed the presence of the expected atoms. Acyl fluoride or alkyne moieties could be functionalized further with amines and azides, respectively. This way of surface functionalization has been studied for versatile applications, including cancer DNA detection, shallow surface doping, solar cell passivation, and hydrogen production. Conclusion In conclusion, a versatile platform has been created by fabricating silicon nanowires and subsequent surface functionalizing using hydrosilylation.

Oxide-free functionalized silicon nanowires for versatile applications

251st National Meeting (2016)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.