A Simple Synthesis of PbSe Nanoparticles via Composite-Molten-Salt Method and Their Electrochemistry Properties

Single-crystalline PbSe nanostructures have been synthesized at temperature of 180 °C for 24 h in the absence of organic dispersant or capping agents by the composite-molten-salts approach, using composite molten salt as a reaction solvent, Se powder and lead nitrate as reactants, and ethylenediamine as reducing agent. The effect of the water content in reaction vessel on the nanoparticle growth and the nanoparticle formation mechanism were discussed. Furthermore, their electrochemical property was studied. Results show that the sizes of the products can be controlled by adjusting the content of water and reaction time, and the electroactivity of PbSe nanoparticles can be changed by changing the alkalinity of electrolyte solution.