Microwave synthesis of highly aligned ultra narrow semiconductor rods and wires.

We report on the rapid production, characterization, and spectral properties of highly uniform, ultra narrow semiconductor (ZnS, ZnSe, CdS, CdSe) nanorods and nanowires by microwave irradiation. Quantum-confinement effects are manifested in the light absorption and the PL of the rods and wires. The uniformity of the rods and of the wires is demonstrated in their spontaneous assembly into highly ordered 2D supercrystals. We also observed the stepwise growth of the rods originating from nearly spherical nuclei.