Single-crystal ZnO nanorods fabricated with different end morphologies

Abstract

In this study, highly crystallized ZnO nanorods produced with hexagonal prism-like, tower-like and tip-like ends were successfully synthesized from the starting raw material of Zn3N2 powder. The experimental results indicate that the different morphologies of the ends of nanorods depend on the concentration of NH3 in the hydrothermal process. Furthermore, the size of the nanorods is significantly influenced by the synthesis temperature. Nanorods of a small diameter (about 10~nm), for example, can be produced at low temperatures. A possible growth mechanism is proposed for the formation of nanorods that exhibit different end morphologies.