Abstract
Here, the large scale synthesis of nanocrystalline ZnO spheres and tetrapods in the size range of 8-40 nm by chemicai vapor synthesis using zinc metal as precursor is described. A detailed study of the effect of experimental parameters on the morphology and yield is presented. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy images of the tetrapods show trust they are formed by the self assembly of four nanorods in the vapor phase. The tetrapods have optical absorption coefficients that are one order of magnitude greater than the spheres and show intense UV luminescence whereas the spheres show only the green emission. The observed differences in the optical properties are related to the presence of surface defects present in the nanospheres. The tetrapods have increased effciencies for application in dye sensitized solar ceils when compared to spheres.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 875-886 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Advanced Functional Materials |
Volume | 19 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 24 2009 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- General Chemistry
- Biomaterials
- General Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Electrochemistry