SnO2 / In2O3 one-dimensional nano-core–shell structures: Synthesis, characterization and photoluminescence properties

SnO2/In2O3 one-dimensional nano-core–shell structures have been synthesized at 1350 ∘C by thermal evaporation of the mixture of metal Sn, Fe(NO3)3 powders and In particles. The as-synthesized products have been characterized by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, selected-area electron diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Microstructure characterization indicates the orientation relationship between core and shell is [ 001 ] In 2 O 3 ∥ [ 001 ] SnO 2 , ( 010 ) In 2 O 3 ∥ ( 010 ) SnO 2 . The formation mechanism of this nano-core–shell structure can be attributed to the cover of In2O3 on the surface of SnO2 nanochains. The photoluminescence properties of the nano-core–shell structures have been measured. The PL spectrum shows some difference with the result from pure SnO2 and In2O3 nanostructure that be deemed to relate to interface defects in SnO2/In2O3 nano-core–shell structure.