Characterization of single transition metal oxide nanorods by combining atomic force microscopy and polarized micro-Raman spectroscopy

► ZnO and α-Fe2O3 nanorods are wurtzite and corundum-type single crystals, respectively. ► ZnO specimens appear homogeneous in composition albeit doped. ► α-Fe2O3 nanorods exhibit a marked structural disorder. ► α-Fe2O3 nanorods may be sensitive to local laser-induced heating effects.