Hydrothermal Synthesis of Te Nanosheets: Growth Mechanism and Electrical Property

Hydrothermalsynthesis is a highly efficient way to yield multiformTe nanosheets. However, the growth mechanisms and property discrepanciesbetween different types of Te nanosheets are still unclear. In thispaper, we perform an investigation on this issue by monitoring thehydrothermally synthesized Te nanosheets at different growth stageswith transmission electron microscopy and electrical tests. Threemain types of Te nanosheets and their variants are revealed includingtrapezoidal and V-shaped configurations. It is foundthat the different types of Te nanosheets dominate at different reactionstages, indicating a sequential growth scenario. Surfactants and surfaceenergy co-determine the growth kinetics, while the crystallographicattachments lead to specifically included angles of 74 & DEG; and 41 & DEG;in the V-shaped Te nanosheets. The fractions of thethree main types of Te nanosheets as a function of reaction time arestatistically tracked, and their crystalline structures, interfaces,and preferential growth orientations are uncovered. Moreover, theelectrical properties of the Te nanosheets are tested, and the resultsshow an interface-related feature. These findings provide some newinsights into the synthesis and property of low-dimensional Te functionalmaterials.

Automated summary

In this study, hydrothermally synthesized Te nanosheets were investigated at different growth stages using transmission electron microscopy and electrical tests. Three main types of Te nanosheets and their variations were identified. Different types of Te nanosheets dominated at different reaction stages, suggesting a sequential growth scenario. The growth kinetics were co-determined by surfactants and surface energy, while crystallographic attachments resulted in specifically included angles in V-shaped Te nanosheets. The fractions of different types of Te nanosheets, as well as their crystalline structures, interfaces, and preferential growth orientations, were statistically tracked. Additionally, the electrical properties of the Te nanosheets showed an interface-related feature. These findings provide new insights into the synthesis and properties of low-dimensional Te functional materials.