Mercury selenide nanorods: Synthesis and characterization via a simple hydrothermal method

HgSe nanorods have been synthesized through a simple hydrothermal reduction approach. The nanorods formed were ≈45 nm average diameter and ≈3 μm nm in length. X-ray diffraction characterization suggested that the product consists of cubic phase pure HgSe. The as-prepared products were also characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). An X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX) study further confirmed the composition and purity of the product. The synthesis procedure is simple and uses less toxic reagents than the previously reported methods. The results showed that the capping agent CTAB (cetyltrimethylammoniumbromide) plays a crucial role in the process. Other factors, such as the reaction time, temperature, different capping agent and the reductant type also have an influence on the morphology of the final products to some extent.

Graphical abstractIn this study we report, the synthesis and characterization of HgSe nanorods by hydrothermal method. The effect of capping agent, reductant sort, temperature and time of reaction on the morphology, particle sizes of HgSe nanorods has been investigated.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► HgSe nanorods were synthesized by hydrothermal method. ► CTAB as capping agent plays a crucial role on the morphology of products. ► Reductant sort, temperature and time can be affected on morphology and particle sizes of product.