Shape-controlled synthesis and nanostructure evolution of single-crystal Mn3O4 nanocrystals

A widely applicable chemical reaction route to single-crystal Mn3O4 nanocrystals, including nanoparticles, nanorods and nanofractals, is presented. We found, with some surprise, that the dripping speed of NaOH solution plays an important role in the nanostructure evolution of Mn3O4 nanocrystals. The difference in the dripping speed of NaOH solution leads to a large difference in the Mn3O4 morphologies produced (particles, rods, or fractals).