Shape-controlled template-driven growth of large CuS hexagonal nanoplates

Abstract

Ultrathin 2D metal sulphide nanostructures have revealed extraordinary properties, applications and thus, the subject matter of current research. However, synthesis of shape-controlled large-sized (approximately few µms) plates/sheets are not well known, specifically due to the colloidal synthesis process resulting in the distribution of shape/size. Here, we report the template-assisted growth of large-sized CuS nanoplates (~0.5–9 µm) by simple wet chemistry, where the Au microplates serve as a template. The Au microplates act as seed and facilitate the Au-Cu via epitaxial growth of Cu. Later, the Au-Cu acts as the source of Cu and in presence of aqueous S2−, the CuS hexagons form, however, the edge of the hexagons are parallel to the Au seed and thus, hinting to be controlled by the seed. Interestingly, the substrate independent Au-Cu can even provide the platform for the spiral nanoplates, by simply decorating the outer surface of the Cu with pillar-like features.