Direct synthesis of a bimodal nanosponge based on FePt and ZnS

The direct synthesis of a spongelike nanostructure that uses magnetic nanoparticles as the joints and semiconducting nanowires as the branches in a solution phase reaction without the use of a template was investigated. This simple, template-free strategy could be a useful alternative to the existing processes because it is versatile and scalable and allows access to a large quantity of nano-materials in an expensive procedure. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to follow the growth of the nanosponges and to characterize the final products. The intensity of the electron diffraction exhibited in the TEM of final products indicates that the joints of the networks are mainly composed of FePt and that the branches are mainly ZnS. The results show that such materials may serve as magnetic/electronic materials to help investigate the electron transfer processes that occur between magnetic nanomaterials and nano-semiconductors.