Synthesis and phase transformation of TiO₂ nano-crystals in aqueous solutions

Abstract

A halogen- and acid-free aqueous solution was developed to crystallize anatase TiO₂ nano-particles. Spinal or zigzag chains of TiO₆ octahedrons were formed from [TiO(C₂O₄)₂]^2- ions. They were then gradually transformed into rutile TiO₂ in the solutions. Rearrangement of octahedrons realized aqueous phase transition from anatase to rutile.