Growth of arrays of Al-doped ZnO nanocones by pulsed laser deposition

Arrays of aligned Al-doped ZnO nanocones have been synthesized by pulsed laser deposition following excimer laser ablation of a ceramic ZnO target containing 2% Al₂O₃ (by weight). The elemental composition, microstructural and optical properties of the products were examined by laser induced breakdown spectroscopy, electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction and room temperature photoluminescence measurements. The incident laser fluence was identified as a key parameter in nanocone formation. Their tapered morphologies and small tip diameters (∼5 nm) suggest that Al-doped ZnO nanocones could find application as field emitters and as a gas sensing material.