Lu₂@C₈₂ Nanorods with Enhanced Photoluminescence and Photoelectrochemical Properties

Abstract

One-dimensional (1D) single-crystalline hexagonal nanorods of Lu₂@C_3v(8)-C₈₂ were prepared for the first time using the liquid-liquid interface precipitation (LLIP) method from the interfaces between carbon disulfide (CS₂) and isopropyl alcohol (IPA). The length of the nanorods can be readily controlled by varying the concentration of the Lu₂@C₈₂ solution in addition to the volume ratio of CS₂ to IPA. The latter factor also exhibits a significant influence on the morphology of the crystals. The crystalline structure of the nanorods has been investigated by XRD and selected area electron diffraction (SAED), suggesting a face-centered cubic structure. Photoluminescence of the Lu₂@C₈₂ nanorods shows a remarkable enhancement as compared to that of pristine Lu₂@C₈₂ powder because of the high crystallinity. Furthermore, we have investigated the photoelectrochemical properties of Lu₂@C₈₂ nanorods, proving their potential applications as photodetectors.