Size-Dependent InAlO3(ZnO)m Nanowires with a Perfect Superlattice Structure

InAlO3(ZnO)(m) superlattice nanowires are successfully synthesized via chemical vapor deposition, using Au catalyst. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy observations indicate that these nanowires consist of an alternative stacking of InO2- layers and AlO(ZnO)(m)(+) blocks along the [0001] direction. The periodicity of these nanowires is proportional to their diameter, which is determined by the Au alloy particle size at the tip of the nanowire. The linear relationship between the periodicity and the diameter is well explained by a cylindrical configuration model. Our results indicate that controlled synthesis of InAlO3(ZnO)(m) superlattice nanowires becomes possible. The photoluminescence properties of InAlO3(ZnO)(m) superlattice nanowires were studied.