Self-originating two-step synthesis of core–shell structured La-doped SrTiO3 nanocubes

Core–shell structured La-doped SrTiO3 nanocubes were synthesized via a two-step synthesis. Primary La-doped SrTiO3 nanocubes formed through the dissolution of NaOH pellets in an ethanol–water solution at room temperature, and during the subsequent hydrothermal treatment a La-doped SrTiO3 layer was coated on the primary nanocubes. The exothermic reaction of NaOH in an ethanol–water solution accelerated the formation of the SrTiO3 phase at room temperature, while La ion doping and the ethanol–water solvent accelerated the formation of cubic particles.