Self-Reorganization of CdTe Nanoparticles into Near-Infrared Hg1-xCdxTe Nanowire Networks

In this study a self-reorganization strategy is applied to prepare near-infrared Hg1-xCdxTe nanowire networks. CdTe nanoparticles (NPs) self-reorganized into Hg1-xCdxTe nanowire networks by taking advantage of the synergic effect of chemical replacement inside NPs and physical attraction between NPs. The dipole-dipole interactions play a vital role in the formation of the nanowire network structures. The near-infrared optical absorption of the nanowire networks is easily tailored in a broad region from 700 to 1200 nm by changing their composition. The Hg1-xCdxTe nanowire networks exhibit fast optoelectrical response and good stability under illumination with 785 nm laser. Not only is the disadvantage of charge carrier transport between nanoparticles overcome, but also the nanowire networks show simplicity and facility in the device fabrication procedure, which is important for their future application in optoelectronics.