Controlled synthesis of ZnS nanocombs by self-evaporation using ZnS nanobelts as source and substrates

ZnS nanocombs were fabricated via a two-step growth method. By annealing Au coated ZnS nanobelts with the help of SnO2/C, comb-like nanostructures would be formed. In the absence of SnO2/C, Au coated ZnS nanobelts would be evaporated completely at the same temperature. As revealed by high resolution transmission microscopy, the growth direction of the ZnS nanobelts was [210] while that of the branches was [001], which epitaxially grew on the (00 ± 1) side surfaces of the ZnS nanobelts. Self-evaporation was used to explain the formation of the ZnS nanocombs. Photoluminescence spectrum reveals that the ZnS nanocombs had two emission bands at 570 and 635 nm.