A simple preparation of ZnO nanocones and exposure to formaldehyde

Hexagonal ZnO nanocones were successfully prepared using a controlled hydrothermal method with the assistance of double anionic surfactants. The products were characterized using X-ray powder diffraction. The morphologies of ZnO nanostructures were characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The effects of the addition of one anionic to another anionic reagent in the crystal structure formation were discussed in detail. The gas sensing properties were measured for formaldehyde. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.