High yield synthesis and optical properties of MgF2 nanowires with high aspect ratios

Abstract

Ultrapure highly crystalline magnesium fluoride (MgF₂) nanowires with high aspect ratios were successfully synthesized by utilizing ammonium boron trifluoride (NH₃BF₃) as a precursor material for the first time. Our results reveal that when the vapors of NH₃BF₃ react with magnesium chloride (MgCl₂), a perfect crystalline MgF₂ phase can be obtained on a large scale. The MgCl₂ utilized in this study plays a crucial role in nanowire growth and morphology control, resulting in ultrapure and highly crystalline MgF₂ nanowires. The prepared nanowires have an average diameter of 60 nm and lengths up to tens of micrometers. Property studies indicate that the MgF₂ nanowires are completely transparent in nature as confirmed by UV-Vis spectroscopy. We believe that these nanowires provide promising building blocks for the future optical nanodevices.