Abstract
ABSTRACT
Solvothermal synthesis methods, using a mixture of ethylene glycol (EG) and water as the solvent, of ZnO spherical and flower-like particles having hierarchical nanostructures are reviewed. The preparation conditions and the nanostructures are summarized and the microscopic characterization of the hierarchical structures is explained. The ratio of EG to water influenced on the formation of the hierarchical structures: EG restricts the growth of ZnO microcrystals and promotes the self-assembly of small crystallites into spheroidal particles, and high water content results in hollow spheres. The application of the ZnO powder to a gas sensing device for volatile organic compounds gases is discussed.
