One‐Pot Synthesis of Octahedral Cu₂O Nanocages via a Catalytic Solution Route

Abstract

Unique single-crystalline octahedral Cu2O nanocages (see Figure) are synthesized in solution by the catalytic reduction of copper tartrate complex into octahedral Cu2O nanocrystals and a subsequent spontaneous hollowing process. A wealth of colorful nanostructures with widely tunable bandgaps in the range 2.6–2.2 eV are obtained. The obtained nanocages may find potential use in solar-energy conversion, catalysis, and as model systems for fundamental research. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2089/2005/c1128_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.