Ag2S morphology controllable via simple template-free solution route

Abstract Different morphologies of Ag 2 S nano- and micro-materials, including spokewise micrometer bars, microfibers, nanowires, worm-like nanoparticles and nanopolyhedrons have been obtained controllably by a facile one-step method at room temperature. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were employed to characterize the structure and compositions of those nanomaterials. Furthermore, ultraviolet visible (UV–vis) spectra of Ag 2 S with different morphologies show different spectral features. In this route, no any organic template materials were added into the reaction container. The concentrations of ammonia, Ag + , S 2− and their ratios in the solution may play an important role on the morphologies and sizes of the products.