The synthesis and photoelectric response of single-crystalline V4O7 nanowires

Vanadium oxide (V
₄
O
₇
) nanowires have been synthesized via a hydrothermal route. The synthesized products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It was found that the products are of anorthic phase and single crystalline nanowires with diameter of 150 nm and length up to 100 ¿m. The formation mechanism of the V
₄
O
₇
nanowires was discussed. Light sensitivity has been investigated on the electrode made from the V
₄
O
₇
nanowires at different biases. The fast current response has been observed under alternative control of light on and off within 1 s interval, indicating a potential application of the V
₄
O
₇
nanowires as optical sensors/switches.