Large-scale synthesis of tube-like ZnS and cable-like ZnS–ZnO arrays: Preparation through the sulfuration conversion from ZnO arrays via a simple chemical solution route

Arrayed structures are desirable for many applications, but the fabrication of many material arrays remains a significant challenge. As a prominent II–VI semiconductor, large-scale arrayed ZnS structure has not been easily fabricated. Here, we introduce a simple structure conversion route for the synthesis of novel arrayed structures, and large-scale tube-like ZnS structure arrays and cable-like ZnS–ZnO composite arrays were successfully prepared through sulfuration conversion from arrayed rod-like ZnO structure based on a hydrothermal method at low temperature. XRD, EDS, SEM, TEM and PL are used to confirm the formation of the novel arrayed structure and trace the conversion process. The results show that the conversion ratio can be conveniently tailored by the reaction time, and the PL properties of the obtained materials can be adjusted through the conversion ratio. Especially, the cable-like structure holds the PL properties of both ZnO and ZnS structures. This simple solution method can be further extended to the preparation of other semiconductor sulfide and selenide, and can amplify the application field of large-scale arrays of semiconductors.