Synthesis of α‐Fe₂O₃ Nanocubes

Nanocubes of α‐Fe₂O₃ were successfully synthesized by aqueous polymer thermolysis method in air. The synthesis of hematite nanoparticles has been carried out using a habit modifier polyvinyl alcohol of different molecular weights. The influence of annealing temperature from 300 to 500°C on structural and thermal properties of α‐Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles was investigated systematically using X‐ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The smallest grain size of 12 nm after calcinations was found in presence of PVA of 1,25,000 molecular weight. The binding and microstructural features of polycrystalline samples of iron oxide were studied by FTIR, SEM and TEM. Infrared spectra reveal the formation of α‐Fe₂O₃ and the removal of organic matter at higher temperatures.

Keywords:

• oxides
• nanostructures
• X‐ray diffraction
• microstructures

Prajakta R. Patil thanks the funding agency ISRO for the financial support.