Iron-assisted electroless deposition reaction for synthesizing copper and silver dendritic structures

Electroless deposition reaction (EDR) is a promising route for the synthesis of copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) dendritic structures with a controllable morphology. Here, we demonstrate the use of an electroless deposition reaction on the interface between an iron foil and aqueous solutions of either Cu or Ag salts to produce well-defined Cu and Ag dendritic nanostructures at room temperature. The dendritic structures and morphology were characterized based on the reaction time, Cu and Ag salt concentration, and diethylene glycol (DEG) content in the aqueous solution. We also demonstrate control over the dendrite sizes, morphologies and growth mechanisms. The electrical resistivity and improved sheet resistance were also evaluated in an anisotropic conductive film prepared from dendritic silver powder.