Synthesis and characterization of SiO₂ nano- and microwires by a non-catalytic technique

In this paper, we report on the synthesis of pure silica (SiO₂) nano- and microwires by a non-catalytic process. The structure, morphology and properties of the products were examined by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The microstructural analysis shows that the SiO₂ wires are high purity silica and are completely amorphous; their diameter ranges from 70 nm to 2 μm. The fiber length varies from 100 μm to several mm. The wire manufacturing process involves reduced temperatures and times (1000 °C, 30 min) compared to other processes, without needing any catalyst and has been carried out on different kinds of substrates (SiC and Si). Successful growth of SiO₂ wires on the surface of silicon microcantilevers has been demonstrated; they could be used as an alternatively way to enhance the sensor performances.