Single-crystal nanocastles of ZnO

Nano-“castles” of ZnO have been synthesized by controlling growth kinetics. This new structure was constructed by two basic parts: a sheet-like hexagonal crystal base and vertical nanorods/nanobelts surrounding the base as the “walls” of the castle. ZnO nanorods with a triangular and diamond cross-sections were found growing on top of the nanocastles. This configuration is a new member in the family of ZnO nanostructures.