Tellurium nanotubes and nanorods synthesized by physical vapor deposition

Tellurium nanotubes and nanorods were synthesized by physical vapor deposition (PVD) in an induction furnace for reaction times between 25 and 35 min. The growth morphologies depended on the reaction times and the atmosphere in the induction furnace. Nanotubes grew only under argon atmosphere (1 mbar). Under vacuum, tellurium blades and nanorods were observed. Of particular interest are the dense carpets of nanorods observed on polycrystalline aluminum. PVD experiences in a conventional high vacuum coating system did not lead to the formation of nanotubes nor nanorods. The interesting electrical properties of tellurium and tellurium compounds combined with the observed growth morphologies are promising for the fabrication of nanoscale functional devices.