Ionizing radiation as a powerful tool for modification of metallic nanostructures
This paper presents a case study of targeted modification of the structure and properties of zinc nanotubes ordered arrays by treatment with Xe+22 and Kr+17 swift heavy ions (SHI). Polyethylene terephthalate track-etched membranes (PET TeMs) with a pore density of (4x109) ions/cm2 have been used as a template for electrochemical deposition of Zn. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive analysis have been used for a comprehensive elucidation of the dimensionality, chemical composition of the synthesized samples. Dynamics of changes in the crystallite shape and orientation of NTs before and after irradiation has been studied by X-ray diffraction. Changes in conductive properties as a result of irradiation were discussed. After Xe+22 ions irradiation with a fluence of (1x1011) m−2 or higher, the formation of loose areas in the structure of Zn NTs as a result of partial degradation of the crystal structure and, consequently, a decline in conductivity are observed. In case of Kr+17 ions, the increase in current conduction with the increase in fluence may be due to the increase in the current carriers.
Zinc nanotubes, ionizing radiation, conductivity, track-etched membranes, swift heavy ions.
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