Synthesis of Cable‐Like Copper Nanowires

Abstract

Cable‐like copper nanowires (1–10 μm in length and 15–80 nm in diameter) with an insulating poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) sheath (5–10 nm in thickness, see Figure) have been successfully synthesized by a solvent‐free reaction between CuCl and (Me 3 Si) 4 Si in the presence of PDMS in sealed tubes. The wire formation mechanism is proposed to be vapor–solid reaction growth.