Different PbS structures including nanocubes, nanorods and nanotubes have been Successfully prepared by a sonochemical route. Structural evolution reveals that the concentration of surfactant, the reaction time and the anion of the lead source are crucial factors for the formation of PbS crystals. In addition, silica-coated PbS nanocubes were also prepared using a modified Stober method by the aid of sonication. By changing the concentration of TEOS, the shell thickness can be adjusted in the range of 20-60 nm. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.