One-dimensional quantum-confinement effect in α-Fe₂O ₃ ultrafine nanorod arrays

The one-dimensional quantum-confinement effect in α-Fe 2O3 ultrafine nanorod arrays is studied. The formation of bundles of ultrafine hematite nanorods is understood by considering the crystal structure of ΒFeOOH, which occurs in nature as the mineral akaganeite. Every third layer is only two-thirds occupied, with rows of oxygen atoms missing along the c-axis. The results show that the bandgap criteria for direct photo-oxidation of water by solar irradiation without an applied bias would be satisfied for such purpose built nanomaterials.