Abstract
One dimensional silicon hollow structure nanomaterials have promising applications in optoelectronic and sensor devices. In this report, amorphous bamboo-like silicon nanotubes were synthesized by a La modified thermal evaporation process. The transmission electron microscope (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), X-ray diffraction spectrum (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to characterize the structure and composition of as prepared samples and residues. Unlike traditional metal-catalytic method, SAED and EDS analysis revealed that there was no metal contamination observed in the final products. Herein a preferential interface nucleation model appeared to control the growth of nanotubular structure and La acts as a modulator of SiO vaporization.
► Si and SiO as growth precursors. ► La anticipation enables growth of bamboo-like silicon nanotubes. ► La modulates SiO vaporization. ► Decreasing gaseous SiO contents decreases nucleation rate. ► Relatively low nucleation rate induces periodic solid-hollow growth mode.