Synthesis, characterization and optical properties determination of millerite NiS nanorods

In the present study millerite nickel sulfide long nanorods have been synthesized adopting a novel, low cost and easy route. Aqueous solution of Ni(II) chelate complex; Na2[Ni(HL)2(H2O)2], synthesized by reacting Ni(II) ions with NaH2L (Eriochrome black T), was decomposed by S2− ions, formed by heating alkaline solution of thiourea at 90 °C. The effect of a cationic surfactant cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) on size and morphology evolution of nanostructures has been investigated. Long nanorods thus formed have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for phase, crystallinity, size and morphology determination. The optical property was determined by UV–vis spectrum. A plausible growth mechanism for shape and size evolution of nanostructures has also been discussed in this article.

Millerite NiS long nanorods were synthesized by decomposing Ni(II) chelate complex, the effect of CTAB on shape and size has been investigated and the growth mechanism was discussed.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Millerite NiS long nanorods have been synthesized in a novel and low cost route, by decomposing Ni(II) chelate complex precursor with S2− ions in aqueous phase at mild temperature 90 °C.
► Products were analyzed by SEM, TEM, XRD and UV–vis spectra.
► Role of ligand HL2− on shape evolution of nanostructures has been studied.
► Effect of a surfactant CTAB on size and morphology control of nanorods has been investigated.
► A plausible mechanism for shape and size evolution has also been proposed.