Nanowire and nanocable intrinsic quantum capacitances and junction capacitances: Results for metal and semiconducting oxides

Abstract

Here we calculate the intrinsic quantum capacitance of RuO2 nanowires and RuO2/SiO2 nanocables (filled interiors of nanotubes, which are empty), based upon available ab initio density of states values, and their conductances allowing determination of transmission coefficients. It is seen that intrinsic quantum capacitance values occur in the aF range. Next, expressions are derived for Schottky junction and p-n junction capacitances of nanowires and nanocables. Evaluation of these expressions for RuO2 nanowires and RuO2/SiO2 nanocables demonstrates that junction capacitance values also occur in the aF range. Comparisons are made between the intrinsic quantum and junction capacitances of RuO2 nanowires and RuO2/SiO2 nanocables, and between them and intrinsic quantum and junction capacitances of carbon nanotubes. We find that the intrinsic quantum capacitance of RuO2-based nanostructures dominates over its junction capacitances by an order of magnitude or more, having important implications for energy and charge storage. © 2010 C. M. Krowne.