Template-Free Synthesis of One-Dimensional SnO2 Nanostructures Using Highly Efficient Hydrothermal Method

Abstract

One-dimensional (1D) SnO2 nanostructures, as n-type semiconductors with a wide band gap, exhibit unique photoelectric properties that offer potential applications in electronic, photoelectric, gas sensing, and energy generation devices. A detailed study of template-free reaction systems is essential to regulate and efficiently synthesise 1DSnO2 nanostructures. This study employed the hydrothermal method to prepare 1DSnO2 nanostructures, with SnCl4·5H2O as the tin source. The impact of various experimental conditions on SnO2 morphology is analysed. Here, 1DSnO2 nanostructures were characterised by analytical methods such as X-ray powder diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and field emission double-beam electron microscopy. The results confirmed the formation of 1DSnO2 nanostructures with a mixed morphology of nanorods and nanowires. The nanorods exhibited a length of 422.87 ± 110.15 nm, a width of 81.4 ± 16.75 nm, and an aspect ratio of 5:1, whereas the nanowires displayed a length of 200 ± 45.24 nm, a width of 15 ± 5.62 nm, and an aspect ratio of 13:1. With the addition of 50 mg of polyvinylpyrrolidone and seed crystal, the acquisition time of the 1DSnO2 nanostructures decreased from 48 to 12 h. The 1DSnO2 nanostructures were efficiently obtained without a template, laying the foundation for large-scale production and application.