The structural difference between AAO templates determines what they can do. Understanding the three through-hole forms and their applications saves a lot of trial and error.
Anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) templates are widely used for nanowires, nanotubes and porous membranes thanks to their regular nanochannels. Each of the three common structures has its own application boundaries.
Single-pass AAO (open one side, dense the other). The aluminum layer is retained so one end of each channel is closed. Ideal as an electrode substrate for electrochemical nanowire deposition, offering the best process controllability.
Double-pass AAO (open both sides). The barrier layer at the bottom is removed so channels run through. Suitable for templated through-hole structures, filtration membranes and applications requiring through-growth.
Ultra-thin AAO. Significantly thinner film means shorter channels and lower resistance. Suits applications requiring fast mass transport or a low channel aspect ratio, and is often used to prepare ultra-thin functional membranes.
Pore diameter and film thickness are usually selectable. Specifying the three parameters — application, pore size and film thickness — before ordering is normally enough to match the right product.
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