Synthesis of one-dimensional sodium titanate nanostructures

We synthesized sodium titanate nanotubes and nanowires using TiB ₂ and TiN as the starting materials, respectively in a hydrothermal process. The experimental results indicate that the reaction temperature influences the morphology of the product significantly. The nanowires were formed above 170°C. Nanotubes were obtained below 140°C. The synthesized nanotubes exhibit a crystallized multi-wall structure. The inner diameter was found to be ca. 5 nm. The diameter of the nanowires was found to be ca. 50 nm. The characteristic lengths was in the order of tens micrometers.