One-pot controlled synthesis, magnetic properties and gas response of α-Fe2O3 nanostructures prepared via a liquid–liquid interface solvothermal route

Abstract

A series of α-Fe₂O₃ nanostructures with different morphologies (hollow ellipsoids, nanocups, and octahedra) have been synthesized through a simple one-pot additive-free liquid–liquid interfacial reaction. The as-synthesized nanostructures were characterized using XRD, TEM, HR-TEM, SAED, N₂ adsorption–desorption isotherms and other techniques. The results indicated that the solvent ratio of n-octanol to deionized water, concentration of reactants and reaction temperature play important roles in preparing different α-Fe₂O₃ sample morphologies. n-Octanol was assumed to have multiple functions: it acted as a solvent and surfactant, and formed a liquid–liquid interface with water. The morphologies, sizes and magnetic properties of the α-Fe₂O₃ microstructures were researched, and a gas sensor based on the α-Fe₂O₃ sample with hollow ellipsoids presented a favorable response to acetone.