New approach of creation and modifying the characteristics of AuNPs/MWCNT/PSi hybrid structures

Abstract

In this paper, a new approach is presented on modifying the properties of hybrid structures of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and multi wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT); deposited on morphologically controlled porous silicon (PSi) surface. The PSi layer was prepared by Photo-electrochemical etching using a current density between 15 to 30mA/cm2. The AuNPs/ MWCNT was decorated on a PSi surface by simple ion reduction from aqueous solutions of gold salt (HAuCl4) at 5\(\times\)10−2 M, 10− 2 M, 10− 3 M, and 10− 4 M concentrations. Structural, morphological and optical characterizations of (AuNPs/MWCNT/PSi) hybrid structure were analyzed with respect of the PSi layer morphology. The obtained results showed a possibility of effectively controlling the hybrid structures morphology, the AuNPs size and the surface area by controlling the pores’ diameters. The deposition of the MWCNT and AuNPs on the wall and pore may enhance the specific surface area of the hybrid structure. Moreover, the decrease of the concentration of the gold salt aqueous solution led a significant decrease of the AuNPs sizes, and this added another means to modify the hybrid structures.