Preparation and characterization of novel spica-like hierarchical vaterite calcium carbonate and a hydrophilic poly(vinylidene fluoride)/calcium carbonate composite membrane

Abstract

Pure vaterite CaCO₃ microcrystals with an unusual spica-like hierarchical morphology were synthesized via a simple precipitation method, in which NaHCO₃ and ethanol played a key role. The oriented attachment mechanism was responsible for the novel structure. An organic–inorganic composite membrane (PVDF/CaCO₃) was prepared and its hydrophilicity was increased dramatically.