In situ synthesis and photoluminescence of SiC nanowires by microwave-assisted pyrolysis of methane

A simple method was used to synthesize SiC nanowires directly on quartz plate by microwave pyrolysis of methane. The samples have been characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy techniques. The results showed that the nanowires are of cubic β-SiC structure with stacking faults. The diameters of SiC nanowires are in the range of 50-200 nm and their lengths up to several tens of microns. The effect of the reaction gas concentration and the reaction temperature on the morphologies of SiC nanowires was also investigated. Two broad photoluminescence peaks at the center wavelength of about 309 and 417 nm were observed at room temperature.