Alq(3) nanorod arrays by temperature-gradient-assisted eutectic melting and crystallization

Abstract

The mixtures of Alq(3) and naphthalene have been used for creating single-crystalline Alq(3) nanorod arrays by temperature-gradient-assisted melting/crystallization method. Due to the formation of eutectic mixtures, the Alq(3) and naphthalene mixtures can be melted and crystallized at low temperature (< 100 degrees C). Pure Alq(3) nanorods were isolated after removing naphthalene by sublimation. XRD and SAED of Alq(3) nanorods showed that they are a-phase single-crystalline Alq(3). Alq(3) nanorod arrays were spontaneously formed without lithographic process when the temperature gradient was applied to the samples upon cooling. All Alq(3) nanorods were aligned along the direction of the temperature gradient.