Optical properties of the ZnO nanotubes synthesized via vapor phase growth

A large quantity of nanosized ZnO tubular structures was prepared using a very simple thermal evaporation of mixed Zn–ZnO powders under a wet oxidation condition. The ZnO nanotubes have a hollow core with crystalline wall of 8–20 nm in thickness. Optical properties of ZnO nanotubes were studied at room temperature. Raman peaks arising from the ZnO nanotubes were analyzed, which correspond well to that of the bulk ZnO sample. The photoluminescence measurements of ZnO nanotubes revealed an intensive UV peak at 377 nm corresponding to the free exciton emission, and a broad peak at about 500 nm arising from defect-related emission.