From 2D framework to quasi-1D nanomaterial: preparation, characterization, and formation mechanism of Cu(3)SnS(4) nanorods.

An ion-ion reaction route under solvothermal condition at relatively low temperatures was first put forward to the preparation of tetragonal Cu(3)SnS(4) nanorods, on the basis of the strategy that 2D framework structure of Cu(3)SnS(4) containing layers could provide orientation for the growth of quasi-1D nanomaterials. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern, transmission electronic microscope (TEM) images, electronic diffraction (ED) pattern, X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA), Mössbauer spectrum, Raman spectrum, thermal analysis (DTA and TGA), ultraviolet and visible light (UV-vis) spectrum, and photoluminescence (PL) spectrum were used to characterize the products. On the basis of a series of supplementary experiments and the result of infrared absorption spectrum (IR), a reaction mechanism was proposed: ethanol as solvent and reductant and trace water/CH(3)CSNH(2) as sulfur source and acid-making components could form 2D network through hydrogen bonds, which provided the orientation for the formation of a 2D framework structure; appropriate concentration of CH(3)CSNH(2), warming speed, reaction constant temperatures (T(rc)), and reaction time also played important roles.