Formation of a Dimeric Precursor Intermediate during the Nonaqueous Synthesis of Titanium Dioxide Nanocrystals

摘要

For tailoring the size and morphology of nanoparticles, a deep knowledge of the mechanism leading to particle formation is required. We have investigated the reaction mechanisms in the synthesis of anatase nanocrystals by the so-called benzyl alcohol route as a model for binary metal oxides, and elucidated the chemical structure of cluster species involved in the reaction using NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray structure analysis. In the first reaction step, a novel dimeric coordination complex is formed via ligand exchange, and was identified as the crucial compound initiating particle formation in the synthesis process.