Influence of electromechanical coupling and electron irradiation on the conductivity of individual ZnO nanowire

We reported the electrical properties of individual ZnO nanowire (NW) with length 20 μm and diameter 100 nm, which prepared by thermal evaporation process. The individual ZnO NW was connected to the tungsten tips with typical metal–semiconductor–metal model, and the current–voltage curves were measured in a nano-manipulation and measurement system. The results indicated that the conductivity of the individual ZnO NW was decreased for inflicting an additional force on ZnO NW from tungsten tip. Moreover, the rectifier characteristics of ZnO NW were affected with the electron beam turning on or off in the chamber of scanning electron microscope.

Graphical abstractThe individual ZnO NW with length 20 μm and diameter 100 nm was connected to the tungsten tips with typical metal–semiconductor–metal model, and the current–voltage curves were measured in a nano-manipulation and measurement system.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide