Welding and Cutting of Nanowires by Joule Heating
Various kinds of metallic and semiconductor nanowires have interesting new mechanical, electrical, optical and thermal properties, and are expected to be used for functional elements in NEMS or MEMS. However, in many cases of particular applications, existing nanowires need to be modified for specific functions. Joining and cutting of nanowires are primary tasks for their effective uses. Techniques for welding and cutting of nanowires have been proposed. A constant direct current is applied to the system, where the free ends of two nanowires are contacted, and the contacting region of two wires is successfully melted by Joule heating. The melted region is then solidified, and the two nanowires are welded together to form a continuous straight nanowire. Lap welding of nanowires and a dissimilar metal weld for generating thermoelectric effects are also possible by the same manner. A free-standing micro ring is successfully fabricated on an electrode chip by the aids of nano-welding and nano-cutting techniques, and it can be used for many electromagnetic applications.
Fig.4 A sample of welding of two nanowires
Research theme: Next
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