Preparation of Mn3O4 nanowires by calcining the precursor powders synthesized in a novel inverse microemulsion

Manganese oxide (hausmannite) nanowires were prepared by annealing precursor powders at a temperature of 800 degreesC for 3 h, which were produced in a novel inverse microemulsion (ImuE) system. The microstructures of the as-prepared Mn3O4 nanowires were investigated by means of X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectra. It has been found that the Mn3O4 nanowires were relatively straight and their surfaces were smooth with a typical diameter of 75-150 nm. The formation mechanism of the Mn3O4 nanowires is discussed.