One-Step Hydrothermal\nSynthesis of Comb-Like ZnO Nanostructures

Abstract

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nano-superstructures (NSSs) have attracted\nintense research interest due to their large surface areas and unique\nproperties. In this work, we report an original approach to synthesize\nZnO NSSs in a one-step manner with a hydrothermal method. The crystalline\nstructures and growth mechanism can be understood by surface energy\ncalculations. The reaction kinetics was investigated for the control\nof the morphology of ZnO NSSs. The critical role of the morphology\nof Au catalysts in the synthesis of ZnO nanostructures has been demonstrated.\nSuch ZnO NSSs can be fabricated on various rigid and flexible substrates\nfor applications in electronics, solar cells, and piezoelectric devices.