Pulsed electrodeposition and unique properties of one-dimensional Bi-based nanostructures in porous alumina membranes*

One-dimensional (1D) Bi-based nanostructures are promising thermoelectric materials and, furthermore, are very interesting systems for studying physical and chemical properties in the nanoscale, owing to their anisotropic character. The main challenges in this area are to control the diameter, orientation, and alloy composition with precision, and thereby to gain ready access to junction and superlattice structures. Here, we review our recent contributions toward advances in pulsed electrodeposition-based routes to fabricate Bibased nanostructures. As a main theme, porous anodic alumina membranes (AAMs) have been employed as effective templates to fabricate Bi elementary, alloy, junction, and superlattice structures, and unique properties are demonstrated.