Modifying the phase and controlling the size of monodisperse ZrO2nanocrystals by employing Gd3+ as a nucleation agent

Abstract

Monodisperse pure cubic ZrO₂ nano-phase is selectively synthesized by employing Gd³⁺ as a nucleation agent in solution. The heteronucleation and growth mechanism as well as the phase selective effect are proposed for the formation of cubic ZrO₂ nanocrystals. By changing the Gd³⁺ content, the size of ZrO₂ nanocrystals can be finely controlled.