Quasi One-dimensional ZnO Nanostructures Fabricated without Catalyst at Lower Temperature

Abstract

One- or quasi one-dimensional zinc oxide nanostructures possess plenty of morphologies. Only by controlling the gas flow rates, and partial pressures of argon, oxygen and zinc vapor, can various types of high-quality ZnO nanomaterials (such as wires, belts, arrays, saws or combs, tetraleg rods, nails, and pins) be synthesized through pure zinc powder evaporation without a catalyst at the temperature range of 600 700?C. In this study, deposited nanostructures were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The authors propose and discuss the growth mechanisms of various ZnO. In addition, properties of room temperature photoluminescence and field emission of several typical ZnO nanostructures are measured and investigated.