Uniform Bi2S3 and Bi2Se3 nanoribbons were synthesized via a template-free route using hydrochloric acid, BiCl3 and S (or Se) powder as starting materials. The reactions were conducted at 150degreesC for 48 h, which is easy to be maintained and controlled. The key step was only adjusting the amount of hydrochloric acid. The products were in large scale and with uniform shape, and were characterized via X-ray diffraction pattern. scanning electronic microscopy images and transmission electron microscopy images. A possible explanation of crystal growth was proposed. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.