Structural characterization and cathodoluminescence of individual BN layers-sheathed CaS:Eu nanowires

We report on a pioneering fabrication of BN layers-sheathed CaS:Eu nanowires via a one-step and catalyst-free method. The CaS:Eu nanowires are sheathed over the entire length with thin BN layers, which effectively prevent the luminescence material decomposition. High-spatial resolution cathodoluminescence investigations on individual nanowires reveal a red light-emitting band and a spatial variation of luminescence from the nanowire surfaces to their cores. The attractive luminescence properties are expected to become valuable not only with respect to fundamental research but also for a design of novel optoelectronic nanodevices.