SiO2 nano-crystals embedded in amorphous silica nanowires

Abstract SiO 2 amorphous nanowires and SiO 2 nanocrystallites have been formed by a simple thermal evaporation process at a relatively low temperature. SEM study shows that the morphologies and sizes of SiO 2 nanostructures are controlled by adjusting the growth conditions. The unique optical properties of the SiO 2 nanostructures are discussed. A growth mechanism is proposed on the basis of experimental conditions and the SiO 2 nanostructures growth habits.