Organic molecule directed synthesis of bismuth nanostructures with varied shapes in aqueous solution and their optical characterization

An aqueous synthesis approach has been developed for shape control of Bi nanostructures. Here, we demonstrate a work on the selective preparation of bismuth nanospheres and nanorods reduced by hydrazine hydrate in the presence of organic molecules as controlling agent. Bismuth nanotubes were also obtained by manipulating the reaction parameters in the system. On controlling the size and dispersibility of the project powders, Bi nanospheres with average diameter of 100 nm, Bi nanorods with length of 50 nm or 200 nm, and Bi nanotubes with length of 100–200 nm have been successfully synthesized. We also discussed the possible growth mechanisms of bismuth nanostructures by studying the influences of experimental parameters. The optical absorption spectra of the shape-controlled bismuth nanostructures show strong absorptions in the range of 200–400 nm. These Bi nanostructures are expected to find potential applications in a variety of areas due to their optical characteristics.