Synthesis of self-standing Pd nanowires via galvanic displacement deposition

This work shows that it is possible to obtain self-standing Pd nanowires into anodic alumina membranes by a simple metal displacement deposition. By using a proper arrangement, specifically designed in order to optimize the process, polycrystalline Pd nanowires were deposited from a solution containing Pd(NH3)4(NO3)2 as precursor. Morphological analysis showed the formation of perfectly aligned nanowires with a uniform diameter throughout the entire length. This last parameter was controlled by both the deposition time and the ratio between the anodic area (active metal) and the cathodic area (pore bottom).