Synthesis of hydrophobic ZnO branches by a phase transfer-based solution method

ZnO branches with hydrophobic surfaces have been successfully produced in the presence of oleic acid (OA) through a phase transfer-based solution method. Results from field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis and Raman tests revealed that the obtained ZnO particles exhibited well-defined branch-like morphology and hexagonal wurtzite structure. Furthermore, surface characteristics of ZnO could be regulated according to the results of floating and active ratio tests. Fourier transform infrared spectra showed that OA interacted with ZnO particles through strong chemical adsorption. Room-temperature photoluminescence spectra were also used to characterize branch-like ZnO particles. Possible mechanism for the formation and surface modification of branch-shaped ZnO particles was applied.