Anatase assemblies from algae: coupling biological self-assembly of 3-D nanoparticle structures with synthetic reaction chemistry

Abstract

The shape-preserving conversion of biologically self-assembled 3-D nanoparticle structures (SiO(2)-based diatom frustules) into a new nanocrystalline material (anatase TiO(2))via a halide gas/solid displacement reaction route is demonstrated.