PbTe/Pb quasi-one-dimensional nanostructure material: controllable array synthesis and side branch formation by electrochemical deposition.

A periodic PbTe/Pb nanostructure material with quasi-one dimension has been electrodeposited onto a SiO2/Si substrate by fabricating an ultra-thin electrolyte layer. The emergence of side branches at the edge of the nanowire array results from the non-uniform electric field distribution and the polycrystalline structure of the nanowires. The measurement of the electrical characteristics indicates that the crystal boundaries and defects in the nanowire could influence the change of resistance in the branch parts. This research should facilitate the acquisition of high-quality nanowire arrays by electrodeposition.