Abstract
Complex hierarchical shapes are widely known in biogenic single crystals, but growth of intricate synthetic metal single crystals is still a challenge. Here we report a simple method for growing intricately shaped single crystals of gold, each consisting of a micron-sized crystal surrounded by a nanoporous structure, while the two parts constitute a single crystal. This is achieved by annealing thin films of gold and germanium to solidify a eutectic composition melt at a hypoeutectic concentration (Au-enriched composition). Transmission electron microscopy and synchrotron submicron scanning diffractometry as well as imaging confirmed that the whole structure was indeed a single crystal. A kinetic model showing how this intricate single-crystal structure can be grown is presented.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 221-227 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| Journal | Crystal Growth and Design |
| Volume | 17 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 4 Jan 2017 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- General Chemistry
- General Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics