Formation and characterization of nanoparticle-bearing threads of silicon,germanium and tin

We report the formation and characterization of nanoparticles and their ass emblage to form a threadlike microstructure of silicon, germanium and tin, by the process of thermal deposition in helium ambient under varied conditi ons of pressure. The structural characterization of the nanoparticles was d one by transmission electron microscope (Philips CM12). Resistance versus t emperature (R-T) measurements, on the thin films embodying nanothreads, exh ibited anomalous behaviour embodying erratic changes in R-T variations. Thi s was suggestive of variation of nanoparticle distribution with increase in temperature.