Probing the size-structure-property correlation of individual nanowires

Abstract

We report a combinatory approach to correlate physical properties with microstructure of individual nanowires (NWs). The mechanical and electrical-transport properties of individual Nb2 O5 NWs are determined experimentally and correlated with the microscopic structures of the same NW. The observed diameter-dependent variation in the Young's modulus is attributed to the defect density variation among NWs of different size. The two-probe electrical-transport measurements revealed the semiconducting nature of Nb2 O5 NWs. A gradual increase in the electrical conductivity of the NW with diameter was observed. © 2009 The American Physical Society.