Growth of Sb2O3 submicron rods by the thermal evaporation of a mixture of Zn and Sb powders

We synthesized crystalline Sb2O3 rods by heating a mixture of Sb and Zn powders. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that the Zn powder as well as the growth temperature affected the morphology of the product. We discussed the possible growth mechanisms. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, selected area electron diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy collectively revealed that the products consisted of Sb2O3 having a pure cubic structure with diameters in the range of 150–600 nm. The photoluminescence spectrum of the Sb2O3 submicron rods under excitation at 325 nm exhibited a visible light emission.