CdS multipod-based structures through a thermal evaporation process

CdS multipod-based structures, such as flowerlike microstructures, tetrapod-like microrods, and long branched nanowires, were selectively prepared by atmospheric pressure thermal evaporation of CdS nanoparticles without the use of a catalyst. The morphologies could be well controlled by simply adjusting the deposition position. The phase structures, morphologies, and optical properties of the products were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. A vapor-liquid mechanism was proposed for the formation of CdS multipod-based structures. The present synthetic route is expected to be applied to the synthesis of other II-VI groups or other group's semiconducting materials with controllable morphologies.