Colloidal synthesis of CdTe nanoplatelets using various cadmium precursors

Two-dimensional (2D) CdTe nanoplatelets were synthesized using cadmium propionate, acetate and myristate precursors. Growth of nanoplatelets within the temperature range of 180–250 °C was monitored with optical absorption, PL spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Continuous growth of NPLs was observed for hydrophobic propionate and myristate precursors at low temperatures, while in the presence of cadmium acetate Ostwald ripening occurs at high growth temperature. It is shown that zinc blende CdTe nanoplatelets with (00l) truncation axis grow by lateral expansion with oriented attachment mechanism. The presence of monomers is considered of major importance for oriented attachment. The growth conditions and duration time were optimized to provide homogeneous CdTe nanoplates. •The optimal synthesis temperature for the controlled growth of NPLs is 180 °C–200 °C.•Cadmium propionate (Cd(prop)2), can be used as most effective a cadmium precursor.•The NPL thickness depends on the type of cadmium precursor and on the synthesis temperature.•The zinc blende CdTe nanoplatelets with (00l) truncation axis grow by lateral expansion.