Necktie-like ZnO nanobelts grown by a self-catalytic VLS process

ZnO nanobelts with triangular top/bottom surfaces (so-called necktie-like nanobelts) are synthesized by a vapor transport deposition method. Scanning electron microscopy observations show that the ZnO nanobelts have a necktie-like morphology and are capped by particles. Transmission electron microscopy examinations indicate that the nanobelts have top and bottom surfaces of ± (11–20), and grow along 1–100]. The particles adhered at tips of the nanobelts are proved to be ZnO. On the basis of SEM and TEM observations, it is believed that the growth of the necktie-like ZnO nanobelts is a VLS process catalyzed by Zn droplets, i.e. a self-catalytic VLS growth. The result reported here is new evidence for such a mechanism.