Figure 1

Schematic of sample preparation and SEM and TEM images.

(a) Schematic illustrating overall process to make closed nanocup container systems which are filled with different sizes of Pb nanoparticles. First nanocups were prepared inside AAO template by CVD and Ar ion milling processes. Next Pb nanoparticles were formed inside nanocontainers by thermal evaporation and annealing process. The size of Pb nanoparticles was controlled by adjusting evaporation time. Finally the nanocontainers with Pb nanoparticles were sealed with carbon layer on the open end, resulting closed nanocup system. (b–d) SEM images and (e–g) TEM images: (b) and (e) carbon nanocups fabricated after Ar ion milling on connected nanocups; (c) and (f) large size Pb nanoparticles formed inside nanocontainers; (d) and (g) small size Pb nanoparticles. TEM images were taken after tilting TEM holder by 30° in x-axis showing side view of the system structure. Dotted line indicates nanocontainer structure with sealing cap. Scale bars are 50 nm for SEM images and 20 nm for TEM images, respectively.