Self-assembly of CuS nanoflakes into flower-like microspheres: Synthesis and characterization

Using Cu(S₂CNEt₂)₂ as a single-source precursor and ethylamine solution (65-70%) as the reaction medium, large-scale flower-like CuS microspheres have been synthesized via a solvothermal treatment in the presence of a surfactant. The products were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, HRTEM, and UV-vis spectrum. The assembled microspheres, with a diameter of about 2-3 μm, were composed of single-crystalline hexagonal CuS nanoflakes with a thickness of several tens of nanometers. It was revealed that the solvent medium, the surfactant, and the reaction time have great influence on the morphology and size of the resulting CuS products.