One-dimensional quantum-confinement effect in α-Fe2O3 ultrafine nanorod arrays

A ID quantum confinement effect in hematite thin films consisting of oriented ultrafine nanorod bundles (see Figure) is investigated by resonant inelastic x-ray scattering of synchrotron radiation. The direct observation of a substantial bandgap increase compared to bulk hematite is revealed. This finding shows that these low-dimensional nanomaterials may be used for the generation of hydrogen by solar illumination without applied bias.