Abstract: A method for fabricating silicon nanostructures. An etch uniformity improving layer is deposited on a substrate. A catalyst (e.g., thin film of Ti/Au) is deposited on the substrate or the etch uniformity improving layer, where the catalyst is contacting a portion of the substrate or the etch uniformity layer. The catalyst and the substrate or etch uniformity improving layer are exposed to an etchant, where the catalyst causes etching of the substrate thereby creating etched nanostructures.