Synthesis and characterization of self-assembled three-dimensional flower-like iron(iii) oxide–indium(iii) oxide binary nanocomposites

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) flower-like iron(III) oxide–indium(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃–In₂O₃) binary metal oxide nanocomposites were successfully fabricated by a simple and economical route based on an efficient ethylene glycol mediated process. Effects of the experimental parameters such as the ratio of Fe to In, type of acid absorber, solvent, and reaction temperature and time on the morphology of the nanocomposite were discussed in detail. The nanocomposites Fe₂O₃–In₂O₃ with flower-like morphology were readily obtained by annealing the precursor. The possible reaction mechanism leading to the precursor and the self-assembly process was also proposed. The results of the thermogravimetric analyses indicated that 3D flower-like Fe₂O₃–In₂O₃ binary metal oxide nanocomposites can be used as fillers to significantly enhance the thermal resistance of silicone rubber under nitrogen.