Twinning modulation in ZnSe nanowires

Abstract

ZnSe nanowires were grown on Si substrates by Au-catalyzed vapour phase growth at 725 °C. A detailed structural and microstructural investigation has been carried out using electron diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Modulated twins have been observed along the nanowire axial direction along the entire length of the nanowires. Faceting has been observed on the side surfaces of the wires with a larger twinning periodicity. The formation mechanism of these twinning-modulated nanowires is discussed. The optical properties are correlated with the microstructure of the nanowires. These twinning-modulated ZnSe nanowires might have great potential as building blocks for optoelectronic nanodevices.