Unique single-crystal TiN1 + x nano-rods: Synthesis, electrical transportation, and electric field effect conductivity

Abstract A new family of rigid periodically zigzag structure of TiN 1 +  x and columnar TiN 1 +  x rods were synthesized by a vapor–liquid–solid deposition method, using iron as the catalyst and milled TiO 2 /Al powders as the starting material. Fundamental mechanism studies based on interface thermodynamics and surface tension were conducted in order to understand the formation of the near-perfect periodically zigzag structure. Four-terminal electrical measurements showed that the single crystalline rods yielded very different resistances due to their nonstoichiometric characteristics. The conductivity of the TiN 1 +  x rods could be affected by insulating-type electric field. The results indicated that TiN-based nano-rods have a big potential for application in electric scopes.