Microstructure and Properties of Pb Nanowires Fabricated by Casting

In this study, we fabricated Pb nanowires in porous alumina membranes with different diameters by pressure casting. It can produce a large quantity of Pb nanowires with average diameters of 20, 80, 200, and 300 nm and lengths of up to 10 µm. The diameter and length of the nanowires can be controlled by selecting templates with a desired size. The microstructure and size effects of Pb wires on the solidification process were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and thermal analysis. The nanowires with average diameters of 20 and 80 nm were single crystals, but those with average diameters of 200 and 300 nm were polycrystals. Finally, we also discussed the melting behaviors of the Pb nanowires in the porous alumina matrix.