Synthesis and Characterization of Iron Oxyhydroxide Nanowires

A very simple method of synthesis of goethite, α-FeOOH, nanowire is reported. To fabricate the nanowires, an anodized alumina nanoporous template (AAO) is used. AAO has pores with an average diameter of 60 nm. The synthesis is based on a self-combustion reaction of the chemical precursor (Fe(NO 3 ) 3 saturated solution) which occurs inside the nanopores. The geometry of AAO determines the morphology of the nanowires and the confinement conditions in which the heat treatment determines the composition of the nanostructure. The nanowires are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and magnetometry [magnetization versus applied field (M versus H)]. TEM analysis indicates that nanowires are composed of several α-FeOOH single crystals. The nanowires have a clear magnetic oriented structure.