Morphology control of rutile nanoparticles in a hydrothermal synthesis from water-soluble titanium complex aqueous solution

Single phase rutile was synthesized by a simple hydrothermal treatment of an aqueous titanium glycolate complex solution at 200°C for 24 h. The obtained sample was composed of 50 × 150 nm rod-like nanoparticles. The aspect ratio of the prepared particles could be controlled by adding glycolic acid or lactic acid to reaction solution. Up to 30 × 2000 nm whisker-like particles could be obtained. The hydroxycarboxylic acids favor development of specific crystal facets and allow to control the aspect ratio of the rutile nanoparticles. We also proposed a model, which explains formation of anatase and rutile, and disappearance of anatase particles during rutile crystals development.