Controllable fabrication of various ZnO micro/nanostructures from a wire-like Zn–EG–AC precursor via a facile solution-based route

In this paper, ZnO particles with various morphologies were prepared though a facile solution-based route. The complexes Zn–EG–AC (EG: ethylene glycol; AC: CH3COO− groups) obtained by reaction of anhydrous zinc acetate and EG were used as precursors. It is found that the precursor could transform into ZnO in water with no need of assistant of additional alkali as it is sensitive to water. At the same time, it is well dispersed in reaction medium (water and ethanol). Experimental results showed that ZnO particles with various morphologies, such as the hexagonal rings, the hexagonal plates, the tubes, the prisms, and some interesting hierarchical structures, could be obtained by controlling hydrolysis of precursor in water and water/ethanol medium through finely tuning the experimental parameters. The success of shape-controllable fabrication was related intimately with the Zn–EG–AC precursor used in our synthesis.

Graphical abstractZnO particles with various morphologies were successfully fabricated through a facile and robust solution-phase route by using Zn–EG as precursor under alkali–free conditions.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Various ZnO particles could be easily prepared by simply tuning the experimental parameters. ► The Zn–EG precursor could hydrolyze to form ZnO in water with no need of using additional alkali. ► The products have uniform shape and size distribution, which should be favorable for practical applications.