Shape-Controlled Synthesis of CdS Nanostructures via a Solvothermal Method

CdS with triangular-like shape, nanorods, and multipods were synthesized via a solvothermal method by using dodecylamine as both solvent and surfactant. The decomposition of the cadmium-dodecylamine complex to form CdS nuclei is the key step for the synthesis of shape-determinant CdS. The cadmium concentration always determines the CdS morphology. Nanorods, multipods, and triangular-like shape CdS nanocrystals were obtained with 1.5, 3, and 6 mmol Cd, respectively. The diameter and aspect ratio of CdS nanorods can be tuned. The arm diameter of CdS multipods could be manipulated from 10 to 60 nm by increasing the sulfur concentration while maintaining the cadmium concentration at 3 mmol. The length of the arms in CdS multipods could be controlled by simply varying the solvothermal time.