ZnO-based ternary compound nanotubes and nanowires

In the last few years nanostructure ZnO is being intensively investigated from the growth control, structural and physical characterization, to device performance. There are now increasing interests in a wide range of ZnO-based ternary compound nanostructures offering even larger possibilities. These compounds can be useful as multi-color light-emitting device, sensors, transparent electrodes, or catalysts. This Review summarizes typical ZnO-based ternary compound nanotubes and nanowires, which are fabricated based on either solid-state reactions with ZnO and/or porous templates, or on the vapour-liquid-solid process. Our focus is put on spinel-type compounds formed with oxides like Al₂O₃, Ga₂O₃, Fe₂O₃, Sb₂O₃, TiO₂, and SnO₂. The discussion includes the growth strategies, nanosize effects, and the associated reaction mechanisms. ZnMgO alloy nanowires, another technologically important ternary compound, are touched at the end, too.