One-dimensional organic photoconductive nanoribbons built on Zn–Schiff base complex

One-dimensional organic nanoribbons built on N-p-nitrophenylsalicylaldimine zinc complex were synthesized via a facile solvothermal route. The scanning electron microscope images revealed that the as-synthesized products were ribbon-like with width mainly of 300–600 nm, thickness of about 50 nm, and length of up to tens of micrometers. Fourier transform infrared spectrum was employed to characterize the structure. Ultraviolet–visible absorption and photoluminescence spectra showed that the products had good photoluminescent property and exhibited blue emission. The conductivity of a bundle of nanoribbons was also measured, which showed that the Schiff base zinc nanoribbons had good photoconductive property. This work might enrich the organic photoconductive materials and be applicable in light-controlled micro-devices or nano-devices in the future.