Controlled Formation of Highly Ordered Cubic and Hexagonal Mesoporous Nanocrystalline Yttria–Zirconia and Ceria–Zirconia Thin Films Exhibiting High Thermal Stability

Abstract

Yttria–zirconia and ceria–zirconia mesoporous thin films adopt either a cubic or 2D hexagonal mesostructure (see picture) depending on the quantity of water employed during the post-processing of the films. The hexagonal films are thermally stable above 400 °C, while the cubic forms retain their integrity up to 700 °C; both forms continue to be porous at temperatures as high as 800 °C. Such robust and easily prepared crystalline materials may have many useful applications, for example, in the design of sensors, electrode materials, and catalysts. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2002/2003/z50147_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.