Synthesis of ZnO nanostructures using different metal catalyst: morphology and photoluminescence characteristics

In the present study, we report the synthesis of ZnO nanostructures using the Vapor-Liquid-Solid growth with different metal catalyst by electron beam evaporation method. As grown samples were characterized by means of Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Raman spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. FESEM characterization showed the formation of different type of nanostructure depending on the metal catalyst. Array of well aligned nanorods were formed when Au and Fe were used as a catalyst. However, Sn catalyst induced the formation of nanoflakes. The presence of peak at 434 cm(-1) in Raman spectroscopy revealed the wurtzite nature of formed ZnO nanostructures. Nanoflakes showed a more strong UV emission in comparision to that of nanorods as revealed by Photoluminescence spectra.