Abstract
Formation mechanisms of two-dimensional nanostructures in wet syntheses are poorly understood. Even more enigmatic is the influence of hydrodynamic forces. Here we use liquid flow cell transmission electron microscopy to show that layered double hydroxide, as a model material, may form via the oriented attachment of hexagonal nanoparticles; under hydrodynamic shear, oriented attachment is accelerated. To hydrodynamically manipulate the kinetics of particle growth and oriented attachment, we develop a microreactor with high and tunable shear rates, enabling control over particle size, crystallinity and aspect ratio. This work offers new insights in the formation of two-dimensional materials, provides a scalable yet precise synthesis method, and proposes new avenues for the rational engineering and scalable production of highly anisotropic nanostructures.
Highlights
Formation mechanisms of two-dimensional nanostructures in wet syntheses are poorly understood
The reactor consists of three quartz tubes placed in a staggered, coaxial configuration; see Fig. 1a and Methods
A high velocity gas is pumped through the innermost tube, with liquid reagent streaming through the two outer tubes, creating two regions of two-phase annular flow
Summary
Formation mechanisms of two-dimensional nanostructures in wet syntheses are poorly understood. Reactor geometries (e.g., the T-micromixer[30], flow hydrothermal reactor[31], and inline dispersion precipitator27), flowrates, and mixing speed have pronounced effects on the crystallite size, surface area, and aspect ratio.
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