CuS nanotubes prepared using Cu(OH)2 nanowires as self-sacrificial template

Copper sulfide (CuS) nanotubes assembled with nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized by microwave-assisted solvothermal method at 80 degrees C using Cu(OH)(2) nanowires in the solvent of ethylene glycol. Cu(OH)(2) nanowires act as both the precursor and template for the preparation of CuS nanotubes assembled with nanoparticles. Cu(OH)(2) nanowires are prepared by adding an aqueous solution containing CuCl2 into an alkaline solution at room temperature and by ultrasonication for 30 min. This method has the advantages of the simplicity and low cost. The samples are characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The method reported herein may be extended to the synthesis of nanotubes of other copper-containing compounds. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.