Nanostructural evolution in mesoporous networks using in situ High-Speed Temperature Scanner

Nikhil Kamboj, Marina Aghayan, Fernando Rubio-Marcos, Khachatur Nazaretyan, Miguel A. Rodríguez, Suren Kharatyan, Irina Hussainova

Index: 10.1016/j.ceramint.2018.04.010

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Abstract

Mesoporous networks with a special distribution of functional centers are an important class of high performance materials for catalysts, bioscaffolds, energy conversion and storage systems. Methods of fabrication allowing to control over special distribution of the functional sites of required phases and designed morphology are still of a great challenge. Here, we report a wet-combustion method for functionalization of the mesoporous network of alumina nanofibers with a single fiber diameter of 7±2 nm by Ni-based nanoparticles. The second-scale duration of the combustion process developing high flame temperature (>1000 °C) allows fabrication of mesoporous functional networks with tailored size, morphology and homogeneity of the dopants in a single-stage. The mechanism of the combustion process are studied by in situ high-speed temperature scanner, which continuously records the temperature history and applied power during the process. It readily allows quenching of the samples at a specified point, demonstrates the critical effect of a fuel on the decomposition temperature, combustion enthalpy, functional group, and pH. As a result of the wet-combustion synthesis, aligned double core-shell NiO-NiAl2O4-Al2O3 fibers or NiO nanoparticles deposited onto alumina nanofibers can be formed.