Simple sonochemical synthesis and characterization of HgSe nanoparticles

Mercury selenide (HgSe) nanostructures were synthesized via a sonochemical method based on the reaction between HgCl2, SeCl4 and hydrazine hydrate (N2H4·H2O) in water, in presence of various capping agents. The effects of preparation parameters such as: the kind of capping agent and its amount, ultrasonic power, reaction time and temperature were investigated. It was found that morphology, particle size and phase of the products could be greatly affected by these parameters. HgSe nanostructures were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).

► HgSe nanparticles were synthesized from reaction of HgCl2 and SeCl4 under sonication.
► Hydrazine as reductant and CTAB, SDBS and TEA as surfactant were used.
► SeCl4 was chosen as a novel Se source to synthesize HgSe.
► Effects of different parameters on purity, size and morphology were investigated.