Cobalt-assisted in situ synthesis of crystalline bismuth nanoparticle arrays

Almost monodisperse, crystalline Bi nanoparticle arrays were synthesized using a newly developed method, magnetically assisted growth of Bi nanoparticles (MAGBINs). The MAGBIN utilizes co-sputtering from Bi and Co targets at an elevated temperature. Crystalline Bi nanoparticles with hexagonal morphology were formed in situ on a Si substrate with a thin surface oxide during this process. The size and density of Bi nanoparticles could be controlled by adjusting the relative powers applied to Bi and Co targets, and they showed opposite trends against the relative powers. Several physical processes such as Co agglomeration, element-selective growth, and Ostwald ripening were proposed to be involved in this Bi nanoparticle growth. The MAGBIN is a facile method to synthesize crystalline Bi nanoparticle arrays, which does not need any chemical agents, complex process, or lithography.