Synthesis and characterization of novel chrysanthemum-like tungsten disulfide (WS2) nanostructure: structure, growth and optical absorption property

In this paper, chrysanthemum-like tungsten disulfide (WS2) nanostructure was synthesized by a facile hydrothermal solution route with the assistance of cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide and Pluronic (F-127). The as-prepared products were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and ultraviolet–visible spectrometer. The experimental results indicated the polymer–surfactant complexes have significant effects on the morphology of the as-prepared products. A possible formation mechanism has also been investigated based on the interaction behavior of polymer–surfactant complexes in aqueous solution. The chrysanthemum-like WS2 nanostructures have good optical absorption property. This well-controlled synthesis approach may be extended to fabricate complex structures of other transition metal sulfide materials.