One-step synthesis of CdTe branched nanowires and nanorod arrays

► We report the fabrication of single crystalline CdTe branched nanowires and well-aligned nanorod arrays via a facile chemical vapor deposition synthetic method. ► Morphology, composition, microstructure and optical property of CdTe branched nanowires and nanorod arrays were researched. ► The formation mechanisms of the CdTe branched nanowires and nanorod arrays were proposed.