Complex-controlled morphosynthesis of ring-like Cd(OH)2 superstructures

A facile route using simple hydrothermal reaction and sequential calcinations to synthesise three-dimensional flower-like Cd(OH)₂ architectures without employing templates or matrix for self-assembly is presented. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of the as-synthesised samples reveal clearly that all diffraction peaks match well with the hexagonal phase of Cd(OH)₂. The flower-like structures are composed of nanosheets with a thickness of about 50 nm, which is verified by the field-emission electron microscopy. Every flake is curled and thin, has a smooth surface and a large surface area.