A simple method to prepare ZnO and Al(OH)3 nanorods by the reaction of the metals with liquid water

Reaction of liquid water with Zn and Al powders and foils have been investigated in the 25–75 °C range. The reaction of Zn metal powder with water in this temperature range yields ZnO nanorods. The diameter of the nanorods decreases slightly with the increase in the reaction temperature, accompanied by an increase in the relative intensity of UV emission band. Zn metal foils also yield ZnO nanorods on reaction with water in the 25–75 °C range. Reaction of Al metal powder or foil with water in the 25–75 °C range yields Al(OH)3 nanorods. The formation of ZnO and Al(OH)3 nanorods by the reaction of the metals with water is suggested to occur because of the decomposition of water by the metal giving hydrogen.

Graphical abstractThe reaction of water at a temperature in the 25–27 °C range with zinc metal gives rise to ZnO nanorods; with Al metal water gives Al(OH)3 nanorods.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide