Selective synthesis of Bi2Se3 nanostructures by solvothermal reaction

Bi₂Se₃ nanobelts, nanoflakes and sheets embedded nanotubes were prepared via solvothermal process with different solvents. The reaction conditions influencing the synthesis of Bi₂Se₃ nanostructures such as solvents, and reaction temperatures were studied and optimized. Results indicated that the mixed solvent composed of triethanolamine and ethanol (TEA-EtOH) or triethanolamine and distilled water (TEA-H₂O) can decrease the threshold temperature (TT) of Bi₂Se₃. With the solvents TEA-EtOH and TEA-H₂O, we originally accomplished the shape-controlled synthesis of Bi₂Se₃ nanocrystals by controlling reaction temperature. Based on the viewpoint of crystallography about Bi₂Se₃, the possible growth mechanisms of Bi₂Se₃ nanostructures were discussed.