Electrochemical self-assembly of Cu/Cu₂O nanowires

Arrays of Cu/Cu₂O nanowires were grown by electrodeposition in the nanopores of track-etched polymer membranes. If an appropriate solution is used, the electrode potential spontaneously oscillates during the application of a constant cathodic current. Both the period of the oscillations and the composition of the nanowires can be controlled by varying the applied current density. A nanocomposite of copper and cuprous oxide is deposited at an applied current over which oscillations occur. In contrast, pure Cu or Cu₂O nanowires are obtained at a deposition current out of the range of oscillation. Electrical transport measurements were also performed on these nanowires.