Solid–Liquid–Solid Growth Mechanism

The solid–liquid–solid (SLS) mechanism for the growths of one-dimensional and quasi-two-dimensional nanomaterials has been reviewed. This mechanism is employed for nanowire growths in the solid crystalline environment. It is the solid-phase analog of the VLS mechanism. It is hence metal catalyst-based mechanism. The basics of this SLS mechanism have been described. The general hypothesis of the growths by the SLS mechanism has been detailed. Characteristic features of it have been depicted. It has been noted to be primarily employed for nanowire growths. So nanowire growths by it (e.g., the SLS mechanism) have been illustrated and examined. Strengths and weaknesses of it in mediating nanowire growths have been elucidated. The importance and feasibility of it have been demonstrated. The nanowires by the SLS mechanism are often amorphous. And, the reasons of this have been detailed.