A simple method for formation of metal nanowires on flexible polymer film

A simple method is devised for forming metal nanowires on flexible polymer film. The metal nanowires are prepared by electrodeposition into nanopores of anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) template on a silicon substrate. After the free-standing metal nanowires on the substrate are formed, the nanowires are directly transferred to a flexible polymer substrate. The tips of metal nanowires are physically nailed into the polymer substrate and then taken off from the silicon substrate. This simple method for transferring nanowires to soft polymer film is demonstrated to be applicable to large area, depending on the area of metal nanowires on the silicon substrate. The fabricated metal nanowires on polymer film can be used as high surface area catalysts for fuel cell applications.