Template-free synthesis of novel, highly-ordered 3D hierarchical Nb3O7(OH) superstructures with semiconductive and photoactive properties

• DOI: 10.1039/c4ta02202e
• Publication Date: 2014-06-09T11:16:46Z
• Authors: Sophia B. Betzler; Andreas Wisnet; Benjamin Breitbach; Christoph Mitterb...; Jonas Weickert; Lukas Schmidt-Mende; Christina Scheu
• Keywords: Hydrothermal Synthesis

3D hierarchical Nb3O7(OH) mesocrystals can be formed by self-organization from nanometer sized building blocks. The present study focuses on the synthesis and detailed investigation of mesocrystals, which achieved a one-step, template-free hydrothermal approach. obtained cubic superstructures consist periodic nanowire-network combine large surface area, high crystallinity, with band gap 3.2 eV photocatalytic activity. Their easy processability in combination named excellent properties makes them promising candidates for number applications. These include photochemical photophysical devices where used as electrode material since they are semiconducting possess area. Generally forces involved self-organized formation not fully understood. In this regard, assembly was investigated in-depth applying transmission electron microscopy, scanning UV/Vis measurements energy-loss spectroscopy. Based results mechanisms is proposed, expands mesocrystal reported literature. addition, our reveals different types nanowire junctions investigates their role at stabilization networks.