Temperature dependent growth and optical properties of SnO2 nanowires and nanobelts

SnO2 nanowires and nanobelts have been grown by the thermal evaporation of Sn powders. The growth of nanowires and nanobelts has been investigated at different temperatures (750–1000°C). The field emission scanning electron microscopic and transmission electron microscopic studies revealed the growth of nanowires and nano-belts at different growth temperatures. The growth mechanisms of the formation of the nanostructures have also been discussed. X-ray diffraction patterns showed that the nanowires and nanobelts are highly crystalline with tetragonal rutile phase. UV-visible absorption spectrum showed the bulk bandgap value (∼ 3–6 eV) of SnO2. Photoluminescence spectra demonstrated a Stokes-shifted emission in the wavelength range 558–588 nm. The Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectra revealed the formation of stoichiometric SnO2 at different growth temperatures.