Nanostructured metal surfaces fabricated by a nonlithographic template method

Abstract

We have developed a simple and completely nonlithographic preparation technique for free-standing nanostructured metallic films with a close-packed hexagonal array of metallic nanoembossments, by utilizing electrochemically prepared textured aluminum sheets as a replication master in conjunction with electrochemical deposition of metals. Microscopic analyses using field emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy revealed that the present nanofabrication technique offers a highly facile and economical way for the production of periodic metallic nanostructures in a large area with high fidelity in pattern transfer as well as with a good degree of flexibility in materials.