Tuning the morphology of Te one-dimensional nanostructures by template-free electrochemical deposition in an ionic liquid

Template-free electrodeposition of Te one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures was carried out from an ionic liquid binary mixture: 1-ethyl-1-octyl-piperidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide:1-ethyl-1-octyl-piperidinium bromide (EOPipTFSI:EOPipBr 95:5 (mol%)). SAED and XRD analyses confirm the formation of Te 1D nanostructures with a hexagonal single crystalline structure following the [001] direction. A systematic study of the influence of synthesis parameters on the deposits morphology has shown that it is possible to control the shape and the dimensions of the deposited nanostructures. Specifically, the applied potential has a strong influence on the morphology of the deposits. Nanowires or hollow nanostructures can be obtained, depending on mass transport conditions, as confirmed by the use of a soluble anode.