Shape-controlled synthesis of Cu2O microcrystals by electrochemical method

Abstract Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) microcrystals have been successfully synthesized via a facile electrochemical method in alkaline NaCl solution with copper plate and graphite slice as electrodes and Na2Cr2O7 as additive. The as-synthesized products have been systematically studied by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED) and ultraviolet–visible spectrum (UV–vis). The results indicate that the pH value, temperature and potential play important roles in the morphology control besides the crystal habits of Cu2O. The possible mechanism has been explored in the article.