Cu3SbS3 nanowires were successfully obtained through mild solvothermal routes at 150,160 and 170 degrees C for 24 h, based on reactions between CuCl, SbCl3 and elemental sulfur in ethylenediamine. The phase, morphology and purity of products have been investigated using X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope and X-ray photoelectron spectra methods, respectively. Ethylenediamine played an important role in the formation of the ternary sulfides. A mechanism is proposed to explain the chemical reactions. (c) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.