Facile synthesis of bismuth sulfide nanostructures and morphology tuning by a biomolecule

Metal sulfides have great potential for various applications. Numerous sulfur source molecules have been employed for metal sulfide synthesis, but there are still some problems, including hazardous byproducts and harsh experimental conditions. Discovering an environmentally friendly new sulfur source molecule is critical for metal sulfide synthesis. In this study, we introduce a new sulfur source molecule for metal sulfide synthesis, especially bismuth sulfide (Bi₂S₃). Using a new sulfur source molecule, 2-mercaptoethanol, in bismuth sulfide synthesis, high-aspect ratio and single-crystalline nanowires of bismuth sulfide have been synthesized in a low-temperature, solvothermal reaction process without a template. With this approach, the morphology of bismuth sulfide can also be successfully tuned with the use of a biomolecule, glutathione, into tapered, cross-and T-shaped nanowires, as well as other interesting structures. We believe this new approach can be extended to the synthesis of other metal sulfide nanostructures and open new opportunities for device applications.