Abstract

By using a novel method denoted the “Scission–template–transportation” route, CdIn₂S₄ nanorods with stoichiometric composition and high quality can be prepared in an ethylenediamine–ethanol mixed solvent at a relatively low temperature. Transmission electron microscopy images showed that the product from the 1∶1 mixed solvent was rod-like with an average size of 25 × 700 nm. Ethylenediamine serves as the nucleophile for the formation of the inorganic [Cd₂S₂] core by scission of the thione groups of cadmium bis(diethyldithiocarbanate) [Cd(DDTC)₂]₂ while ethanol acts as the transportation reagent for InCl₃ in the process. These factors are both conducive to the growth of CdIn₂S₄ nanorods. The reaction proceeds through one-dimensional [CdS]_n clusters, which act as intermediate templates for the subsequent growth of CdIn₂S₄ nanorods. Through adjusting the ethylenediamine∶ethanol ratio, the size of the CdIn₂S₄ nanorods can be easily controlled. The products were also investigated by X-ray powder diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and ICP elemental analysis.