Synthesis of high aspect-ratio copper nanowires for one-dimensional fillers in conductive fibers

In this work, we report a facile route to synthesize high aspect-ratio copper nanowires (Cu NWs) in an aqueous solution for one-dimensional filler in conductive fibers. From the syntheses with various types of capping agents, we found that the capping agents with higher molecular weight (oleylamine and hexadecylamine) were more favorable in obtaining high aspect-ratio Cu NWs compared to those with lower molecular weight (ethylenediamine and butylamine). Also, it was observed that the amount of the capping agent was one of the key factors in obtaining high aspect-ratio nanowires while suppressing the growth of cubic-structured or spherical nanoparticles during the synthesis. From these results, we believe that the synthesized Cu NWs could be a possible candidate for one-dimensional filler in conductive fibers which require high electrical conductivity as well as high mechanical flexibility.