Quantum size effect of surface-channeled charge carrier transport in Au nanoparticles-VO2 nanowire assembly

•Investigated carrier transports of Au coated VO2 nanowire.•Observed oscillations in channel conductance at 150 K.•Interpret conductance oscillations in terms of quantum size effect.

Confined charge carriers in nano-scaled structures have revealed great impacts on scientific and technological advances during the last few decades. Here we present quantum size effect of surface-channeled Au nanoparticles-VO2 nanowire assembly fabricated via ac dielectrophoresis. Carrier injection is manipulated through Au nanoparticles decorated on the surface of single crystal VO2 nanowire. Plateau structures are seen in the I–V characteristic of the assembly at 150 K, and the corresponding oscillation in channel conductance is analyzed in terms of quantum confinement induced two-dimensional layer of the carriers in a nanobelt formed around the insulating core of the VO2 nanowire.