Two-dimensional hexagonal SnS2 nanoflakes: fabrication, characterization, and growth mechanism

Two-dimensional layered hexagonal SnS2 nanoflakes were synthesized by a mild hydrothermal method at 145°C for 48 h and then characterized in depth. The result shows that the SnS2 nanoflakes are very uniform and have a single-crystal layered nanostructure. These nanoflakes have an average size of about 300 nm and a thickness of about 50 nm. Based on time-dependent experimental results and other parallel experiments, we ascribe the self-repair–epitaxial growth mechanism to the growth of the SnS2 nanostructures. Furthermore, this growth mechanism is also discussed in detail from two aspects: the Bravais rule and the surface energy theories.