Facile conversion of Zn nanowires to Zn nanotubes by heating-induced volatilization in nanopores of anodic aluminum oxide template

• A new template assisted synthesis strategy for Zn nanotubes is demonstrated.
• Zn nanotubes can be obtained by heating-induced volatilization of Zn nanowires.
• Morphology of nanotubes is controlled by adjusting heating temperature and time.
• Pore confinement effects of AAO template play an important role in the method.

In this work, a new template assisted synthesis strategy for the preparation of Zn nanotubes is demonstrated. By means of the heating-induced volatilization, Zn nanotubes can be successfully converted from Zn nanowires embedded in anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template. The morphology and crystal structure of as-prepared Zn nanotubes are examined by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and selected-area electron diffraction. The related results can systemically reveal the synthesis process of Zn nanotubes. The heating temperature and time have effect on the structure morphology of Zn nanotubes. The extension of heating time and increase of heating temperature are conducive to the formation of Zn nanotubes. The volatilization of metal Zn and the confinement of AAO nanochannels play key roles in the formation of Zn nanotubes. This synthesis strategy may become a universal method to obtain the low melting point metal or metal oxide nanotubes.