Fabrication and optical properties of needle-like ZnO array by a simple hydrothermal process

A simple low temperature hydrothermal process was employed to fabricate the needle-like ZnO array in the diluted butyl amine. The microstructure, morphology and the photoluminescence property of the as-prepared products were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), field emission environment scanning electron microscope (SEM) and photoluminescence spectrum (PL). The results show that the needle-like ZnO crystals are hexagonal wurtzite monocrystal with slender figure and smooth surface. A possible growth mechanism of the needle-like ZnO array related to the diluted butyl amine is proposed. The PL spectrum of the needle-like ZnO array shows a strong blue light emission at 437 nm and a relatively low ultraviolet emission at 377 nm.

► The needle-like ZnO array is prepared by a simple hydrothermal route.
► The butyl amine played an important role in the growth of needle-like ZnO array.
► A possible growth mechanism of needle-like ZnO array was proposed.
► The needle-like ZnO array shows a strong photoluminescence in the blue emission.