One-dimensional nanostructures of metals: large-scale synthesis and some potential applications

We review recent developments in our group regarding the solution-phase synthesis of one-dimensional nanostructures of metals. The synthetic approaches include solution-liquid-solid growth for nanowires of low-melting-point metals such as Pb; seed-directed growth for Ag nanowires, nanobeams, and nanobelts; kinetically controlled growth for Pt nanorods, nanowires, and multipods; and galvanic replacement for nanotubes of Au, Pt, and Pd. Both characterization and mechanistic studies are presented for each nanostructure. Finally, we highlight the electrical and plasmonic properties of these metal nanostructures and discuss their potential applications in nanoscale devices.