Growth and characterization of tetragonal Mn3O4 nanowires

Mn3O4 nanowires were synthesized by calcination of a precursor obtained in a novel microemulsion. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and selected area electron diffraction were used to characterize the structural features and chemical compositions of the as-synthesized nanowires. The results showed that the as prepared nanowires are composed of tetragonal Mn3O4, the diameters range from 50 to 800 nm, and lengths reach tens of micrometers. The nanowires are highly promising for applications in magnetic materials and sensors.