Synthesis and formation mechanism of GeSe nanostructures

• GeS nanosheets and nanobelts can be selectively fabricated.
• Surface-passivating effect of oleylamine induced formation of GeSe nanosheets.
• Anisotropic growth originated from a large excess of Se produced GeSe nanobelts.

GeSe nanosheets and nanobelts have been selectively fabricated with a facile solution approach. The presence of oleylamine played a key role in the formation of GeSe nanosheets due to its surface-passivating effect. If a large excess of reactant Se was used in the reaction, the anisotropic growth could be promoted and GeSe nanobelts could be obtained.