Figure 1

SEM and TEM characterization of samples. (a, b) The top SEM view of AAO templates with uniform hexagonal nanochannels prepared using H₂C₂O₄ and H₂SO₄, respectively. The estimated average diameter d and period a are d = 34 nm and a = 110 nm (a) and d = 20 nm and a = 50 nm (b). The inset of (a) is the cross-sectional SEM view of the AAO template made in H₂C₂O₄, and the inset of (b) is the TEM image of AC-grown Au nanowires in the AAO template manufactured by H₂C₂O₄ anodization, with the average diameter and length being 34 and 150 nm, respectively.