Hydrothermal
synthesis is a highly efficient way to yield multiform
Te nanosheets. However, the growth mechanisms and property discrepancies
between different types of Te nanosheets are still unclear. In this
paper, we perform an investigation on this issue by monitoring the
hydrothermally synthesized Te nanosheets at different growth stages
with transmission electron microscopy and electrical tests. Three
main types of Te nanosheets and their variants are revealed including
trapezoidal and “V”-shaped configurations. It is found
that the different types of Te nanosheets dominate at different reaction
stages, indicating a sequential growth scenario. Surfactants and surface
energy co-determine the growth kinetics, while the crystallographic
attachments lead to specifically included angles of 74° and 41°
in the “V”-shaped Te nanosheets. The fractions of the
three main types of Te nanosheets as a function of reaction time are
statistically tracked, and their crystalline structures, interfaces,
and preferential growth orientations are uncovered. Moreover, the
electrical properties of the Te nanosheets are tested, and the results
show an interface-related feature. These findings provide some new
insights into the synthesis and property of low-dimensional Te functional
materials.