Facile template-free fabrication of novel flower-like γ-Al2O3 nanostructures and their enhanced Pb(ii) removal application in water

Abstract

Novel hierarchical flower-like γ-Al₂O₃ nanostructures were successfully fabricated via a facile template-free and cost-efficient process, in which the presence of urea had a crucial influence on their morphology control. Upon the addition of urea, the morphology gradually evolved from nanoparticles to flake-like nanopetals which finally self-assembled to flower-like architectures, and increasing the concentration of urea could increase the density of nanoparticles composed of flake-like nanopetals. Further application in water showed excellent adsorption performance for lead (Pb(II)) removal.