Formation and mechanistic study of self-ordering ZrO2 nanotubes by anodic oxidation

Abstract

Among all of the one dimensional nanostructures other than titania (TiO2) and carbon, zirconia (ZrO2) have started to gain interest due to its potential in catalytic and energy applications. ZrO2 nanotubes arrays have been prepared using electrochemical anodizing method of Zr foil in fluorine containing glycerol electrolyte. The morphology and structure of the ZrO2 nanotubes are strongly controlled by the applied electrochemical condition especially voltage. Nanotubes with diameter of 30 to 60 nm has been produced by controlling the anodization voltage from 10 to 40 V. The ZrO2 nanotubes formed in this method is partially crystalline even without the heat treatment. The wall thickness is ~10 nm. The self-aligned nanotubes produced by this method could be used for phocatalytic application. The degradation of methylene orange under UV light was successful when ZrO2 nanotubes made in 30 V is used.