Morphological modifications of selenium by recrystallization of its aqueous complex solutions.

ABSTRACT

Recrystallization of elemental selenium (Se) from aqueous solution in presence of sodium sulphite (Na2SO3) and sodium sulphide (Na2S) acting as complexing agents has resulted in the formation of nano and microstructures of Se having five different morphological modifications. (1) An aqueous solution of sodium selenosulphate (Na2SO3Se) obtained by dissolving Se in Na2SO3 under refluxing condition yields hemispherical microcrystals. (2) The filtrate of the above reaction mixture on aging produces hexagonal prismatic microrods of Se. Addition of Na2SO3Se solution to formalin (HCHO) at room temperature and refluxing conditions generates (3) Se nanorods, and (4) spherical microcrystals, respectively. (5) Recrystallization of Se from aqueous solution of Na2S develops flower shaped microcrystals.