Morphology-controlled fabrication of CuO architectures

CuO nanorod arrays, networks of nanosheets and pistachio nuts consisting nanorods were prepared via a multi-step synthesis method starting from copper oxalate precursor. CuO nanorod arrays were prepared by solid state thermal calcination of Cu(OH)(2) nanorod arrays through the reaction of copper oxalate precursor with NaOH at 40 degrees C. CuO networks of nanosheets were obtained by treatment at 60 degrees C for 90min, and CuO pistachio nuts consisting nanorods were obtained at 80 degrees C for 20min. The products were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The influences of temperature and reaction time on the synthesis of CuO were investigated. The formation mechanism of CuO nanostructures was discussed.