Self-assembled three-dimensional Cu-Ge nanoweb composite.

The inexpensive combination of cryogenically milled Cu(3)Ge powders sonochemically processed in a standard ultrasonic cleaner has led to the prototype of a heretofore undescribed class of material. This prototype is a nanostructured composite composed of 4.5 nm diameter Cu nanocrystals embedded in a three-dimensional (3D) amorphous CuGeO(3) polyhedron web matrix. The diameters of the wires comprising the matrix are typically 5-15 nm. Complete structural and compositional characterization is reported to provide additional insight and firm designation on the observation of this previously undescribed class of material. The large surface to volume ratio of these nanoweb composites may offer unique advantages based on altered optical or electronic and magnetic properties. For example, quantum confinement of the Cu dots in the amorphous 3D nanowebs is possible. Nanostructures in general have altered properties compared to those of bulk materials and the same is expected in nanostructured composites.