Liu Y., Rathousky J., Bein T., Fattakhova-Rohlfing D.
University of Munich (LMU), DE
Keywords: mesoporous films, nanoparticles, self-assembly, transparent conducting oxides
Controlling the synthesis of ultrasmall, stable oxide nanoparticles of different compositions and functionality is a continuing quest of nanoscience. Here we report on a solvothermal procedure that enables the preparation of crystalline niobium-doped and undoped non-agglomerated dispersible titania nanoparticles with a narrow particle size distribution and homogeneous incorporation of doping atoms within the host lattice. We show that the particle size and crystallinity can be controlled by the reaction temperature and time. Significantly, substitutional doping with niobium ions drastically increases the electrical conductivity of the titania particles. In contrast to the titania particles prepared by a solvothermal synthesis in benzyl alcohol, those of similar size and crystallinity synthesized in tert-butanol can be easily dispersed at high concentrations in THF to form stable colloidal dispersions, which can be attributed to different surface chemistry. We demonstrate that the Nb-doped titania nanoparticles can be assembled into regular three-dimensional mesoporous structures with a narrow pore size distribution and high surface area.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2011: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 13, 2011
Pages: 243 - 246
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Nanoparticle Synthesis & Applications
ISBN: 978-1-4398-7142-3