Template-Mediated Formation of Colloidal Two-Dimensional Tin Telluride Nanosheets and the Role of the Ligands

We report the colloidal synthesis of 2D SnTe nanosheets through precursor hot injection in a nonpolar solvent. During reaction, an important intermediate─Sn-template─is formed which defines confined growth SnTe. This “flake-like” structure gives first evidence for possible morphology formation prior to anion (TOP-Te). Additionally, we explore role each ligand reaction process. Thus, explain and evolution nanostructures from mechanism perspective as well on molecular scale. The interplay ligands provides necessary conditions realization stable low-dimensional nanomaterials with tunable size shape.