Green synthesis and growth mechanism of new nanomaterial: Zn(salen) nano-complex

• Synthesis of Zn(salen) nano-complex for the first time.
• Use of green solvent for the synthesis of coordination compound.
• Represent a reasonable mechanism for growth of crystals.

Zn(salen) nano-complex was synthesized by facile hydro/solvothermal route in water as green solvent at various times and temperatures without using any surfactant or capping agent. The morphology of the products varied from irregular microcrystals to nanosheets by adjusting the temperature and time of the reaction. Based on the growth process with respect to the morphological structure, a novel growth mechanism is revealed which involves a unique multistep pathway, including reaction–nucleation, aggregation, crystallization, dissolution–recrystallization, and Ostwald ripening. The photoluminescence properties of the compounds were also examined and exhibited strong fluorescence emissions.