Controlled synthesis of single-crystal SnSe nanoplates

Two-dimensional layered IV–VI chalcogenides are attracting great interest for applications in next-generation optoelectronic, photovoltaic, and thermoelectric devices. However, great challenges in the controllable synthesis of high-quality IV–VI chalcogenide nanostructures have hindered their in-depth studies and practical applications to date. Here we report, for the first time, a feasible synthesis of single-crystal IV–VI SnSe nanoplates in a controlled manner on mica substrates by vapor transport deposition. The as-grown SnSe nanoplates have approximately square shapes with controllable side lengths varying from 1 to 6 μm. Electrical transport and optoelectronic measurements show that as-obtained SnSe nanoplates display p-type conductivity and high photoresponsivity.