Biologically inspired synthesis of highly branched zinc oxide nanowires Available to Purchase

Biological mineralization demonstrates how nature can produce elegant structures through controlled organic–mineral interactions. These organics are often used to control shape, size and orientation of mineral. Inspired from nature, the authors utilize an organic agent, ethylenediamine, as a mineralizer to inhibit rapid hydrolysis and condensation of zinc oxide, and thus control crystal growth behavior. Through adjustment of synthesis parameters, such as precursor concentration and the molar ratio of the inorganic precursor and organic ligands, the authors investigate the mechanism of formation of highly branched zinc oxide nanostructures, which can be used for improving efficiency in energy conversion and water purification applications.