Phase transformation and size tuning in controlled-growth of nanocrystals via self-seeded nucleation with preferential thermodynamic stability.

Controlled growth of nanocrystals (NCs) is produced by self-seeded nucleation with preferential thermodynamic stability. The intermediate reactants undergo in situ phase transformation forming the final products. The growth followed by irreversible phase transformation leads to the complete separation of nucleation and growth, thereby allowing size tuning of the final NCs.