Synthesis of novel hollow microflowers (NHMF) of Nb3O7F, their optical and hydrogen storage properties

• Novel hollow microflowers (NHMF) of Nb3O7F have been synthesized.
• First studies on hydrogen storage properties of Nb3O7F-NHMF.
• Hydrogen storage is 1.08 wt.% at 473 K and 0.79 wt.% at 373 K.

A two step, facile surfactant free hydrothermal route was adopted to synthesize Nb3O7F novel hollow microflowers (NHMF). Time dependent experiments were performed which suggested Nb3O7F-NHMF were formed due to Ostwald-ripening process. Raman spectroscopy was conducted to understand different vibrational modes of Nb3O7F-NHMF. Its characteristic band at 692 cm−1 was observed which is associated to NbO6 octahedron sharing. The bandgap of 3.2 eV was calculated by using UV-VIS-NIR absorption spectrum. Considering importance of layered structures in energy storage applications, hydrogen storage ability of Nb3O7F-NHMF were measured for the first time. The maximum values of hydrogen absorption for Nb3O7F-NHMF at 373 K and 473 K were 0.789 wt.% and 1.08 wt.%, respectively. The hydrogen storage measurements revealed the potential of Nb3O7F-NHMF as prospective material for energy storage applications.

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