Abstract
AbstractControlled-shape BaTiO3-based microparticles were synthesized with the use of diatom microshells (frustules) as templates. The SiO2-based frustules of Aulacoseira diatoms were first converted into MgO-based replicas via a gas/solid displacement reaction at 900°C. A BaTiO3 coating was then applied to the MgO-bearing frustules by a sol-gel process. After firing at 700°C for 1.5 h, a conformal nanocrystalline coating of BaTiO3was generated on the surfaces of the MgO-bearing frustules. The underlying MgO scaffolds were then selectively dissolved away to yield freestanding 3-D BaTiO3-based replicas of the original Aulacoseira diatom frustules. This work demonstrates that microparticles with well-controlled 3-D morphologies and non-natural multicomponent ceramic compositions can be produced by merging the self-assembly ability of biomineralizing micro-organisms with synthetic chemical tailoring.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
