In this article, what has been accomplished?
This research explores how introducing tin (Sn) atoms into ZnO nanobelts can completely change their growth pathway and lead to the formation of ZnO nanorings, a rare and highly intriguing nanostructure. During growth, the presence of Sn creates planar defects inside the nanobelts, which generate internal surface-charge imbalance and cause the nanobelts to curl and close into ring shapes. In some cases, the gold catalyst at the growth tip becomes unstable and splits, allowing dual nanorings to form from a single belt, revealing the delicate relationship between doping, surface energy, and growth environment. The study also shows that Sn doping slightly widens the band gap and increases oxygen vacancy levels, giving these nanorings potential use in UV optoelectronic devices and nanoscale sensors.
With this paper, how can we close the gaps?
Author's words...
This work reflects early experimental advances led by Prof. Ramin Yousefi and his research collaborators in developing morphology-controlled ZnO nanostructures.
Today, this research direction directly aligns with the BMF Science Group mission, which emphasizes transforming fundamental nanomaterials knowledge into practical optical, sensor, and energy-related technologies through international collaboration and application-driven research. Although this study predates the current BMF grant framework, it represents the scientific foundation upon which many of the present BMF-supported nanomaterials and sensing projects are built.
