Synthesis of flower-like SnS2 nanostructured microspheres using PEG 200 as solvent

The flower-like tin disulphide (SnS2) microspheres have been synthesised by a facile solution-based route using polyethylene glycol 200 as the solvent and template. The products are characterised by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Experimental results show that the flower-like SnS2 microspheres with diameters around 2-5 mu m are made of many interleaving petal-like nanostructures. These nanopetals are 1-3 mu m in side length and less than 60 nm in thickness. The influences of solvent and sulphur source on the morphology of SnS2 nanostructures have also been investigated. The possible growth mechanism is discussed. Furthermore, the room-temperature Raman spectrum of the flower-like SnS2 microspheres is also studied.