Predicting the Growth of Two-Dimensional Nanostructures

TL;DR

This paper introduces a predictive framework using morphology diagrams to forecast the growth regimes of two-dimensional nanostructures, validated through experiments with various materials, advancing shape-controlled nanomaterial synthesis.

Contribution

It presents a novel approach based on atomistic mechanisms and morphology diagrams to predict 2D crystal growth regimes, validated experimentally for multiple materials.

Findings

Morphology diagrams successfully predict 2D growth regimes.

Experimental validation with Au, Ag, Pt, Pd, and hydroxyapatite.

Controlled reactions produce desired 2D nanostructures.

Abstract

The ability to predict the morphology of crystals formed by chemical reactions is of fundamental importance for the shape-controlled synthesis of nanostructures. Based on the atomistic mechanism for crystal growth under different driving forces, we have developed morphology diagrams to predict regimes for the growth of two-dimensional crystals. By using controlled reactions for crystal growth in the absence of surfactants/capping agents, we demonstrate the validity of this approach for the formation of 2-D structures of Au, Ag, Pt, Pd and hydroxyapatite.