Block copolymer template-directed synthesis of well-ordered metallic nanostructures

3D nanostructured inorganic materials appear as promising candidates for various practical applications. Here we focus on metal nanofoams, a class of 3D nanomaterials uniquely combining the properties of metals and nanoporous materials, and review the recent developments in their preparation methods. Common approaches, such as dealloying, sal gel synthesis, nanosmelting, combustion synthesis, etc., render metallic nanostructures with highly disordered architectures which might have adverse effects on their mechanical properties. In contrast, block copolymers have the ability to self-assemble into bicontinuous ordered nanostructures that can be applied as templates for the preparation of well-ordered metal nanofoams. Several examples of block copolymer template-directed synthesis of continuous metallic nanostructures will be described and the prospects of this approach will be discussed. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.