Facile “green” synthesis and characterization of CdSe nanoneedles: An alternative to organometallic synthetic routes

► The CdSe nanoneedles were synthesized by a green room temperature method. ► This method involves the use of citrate ions as biocompatible capping agent. ► XRD pattern shows that the CdSe nanoneedles have a hexagonal structure. ► Absorption edges of the CdSe nanoneedles are located in the range of 505-530 nm.