Synthesis of PbS nanorods and other ionic nanocrystals of complex morphology by sequential cation exchange reactions

We show that nanocrystals (NCs) with well-established synthetic protocols for high shape and size monodispersity can be used as templates to independently control the NC composition through successive cation exchange reactions. Chemical transformations like cation exchange reactions overcome a limitation in traditional colloidal synthesis, where the NC shape often reflects the inherent symmetry of the underlying lattice. Specifically we show that full or partial interconversion between wurtzite CdS, chalcocite Cu(2)S, and rock salt PbS NCs can occur while preserving anisotropic shapes unique to the as-synthesized materials. The exchange reactions are driven by disparate solubilites between the two cations by using ligands that preferentially coordinate to either monovalent or divalent transition metals. Starting with CdS, highly anisotropic PbS nanorods are created, which serve as an important material for studying strong two-dimensional quantum confinement, as well as for optoelectronic applications. In NC heterostructures containing segments of different materials, the exchange reaction can be made highly selective for just one of the components of the heterostructure. Thus, through precise control over ion insertion and removal, we can obtain interesting CdS|PbS heterostructure nanorods, where the spatial arrangement of materials is controlled through an intermediate exchange reaction.