Ni–Au bi-metallic nanoparticles formed via dewetting

Solid-state dewetting in Ni/Au bi-layer films was used to fabricate Ni–Au alloy nanoparticles. Due to the limited solubility between Au and Ni, the individual particles contain both, an Au-rich phase and a Ni-rich phase. The shape of the particles can be complex and is temperature-dependent. There is a change in texture after annealing, and this is probably related to the relaxation of strain energy induced by alloying or dewetting.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A new method is introduced to study the nanoalloy via dewetting of metallic bi-layer films. ► Ni–Au nanoparticles are formed by dewetting of Ni/Au bi-layer films. ► There is a change in texture due to alloying.