Unveiling the efficiency of microwave-assisted hydrothermal treatment for the preparation of SrTiO3 mesocrystals

Abstract

Material processing has become essential for the proper control, tuning and consequent application of the properties of micro/nanoparticles. In this case, we report herein the capability of the microwave-assisted hydrothermal (MAH) method to prepare the SrTiO₃ compound, as a case study of inorganic compounds. Analyses conducted by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron and X-ray absorption spectroscopies confirmed that the MAH route enables the formation of pristine SrTiO₃. The results indicated that the combination of thermal and non-thermal effects during the MAH treatment provides ideal conditions for an efficient and rapid synthesis of pristine SrTiO₃ mesocrystals. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed a cube-like morphology (of ca. 1 μm) formed via a self-assembly process, influenced by the MAH time. Additionally, photoluminescence measurements revealed a broad blue emission related to intrinsic defects, which decreased with the MAH synthesis time.