Silver nanowires were synthesized by the hydrothermal route in aqueous solution of gemini surfactant 1,3-bis(cetyldimethylammonium) propane dibromide (16-3-16) at a relatively low temperature. The as-prepared silver nanowires were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), electron diffraction (ED), and UV-vis absorption spectrum. The obtained silver nanowires are of high aspect ratios with an average diameter of similar to 30 nm and length ranging from several to tens of micrometers. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.