SnO2 / In2O3 one-dimensional nano-core-shell structures: Synthesis, characterization and photoluminescence properties

SnO2/In2O3 one-dimensional nano-core-shell structures have been synthesized at 1350 ∘C by thermal evaporation of the mixture of metal Sn, Fe(NO3)3 powders and In particles. The as-synthesized products have been characterized by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, selected-area electron diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Microstructure characterization indicates the orientation relationship between core and shell is [001]In2O3∥[001]SnO2, (010)In2O3∥(010)SnO2. The formation mechanism of this nano-core-shell structure can be attributed to the cover of In2O3 on the surface of SnO2 nanochains. The photoluminescence properties of the nano-core-shell structures have been measured. The PL spectrum shows some difference with the result from pure SnO2 and In2O3 nanostructure that be deemed to relate to interface defects in SnO2/In2O3 nano-core-shell structure.