Synthesis of single crystalline (NH4)2V6O16·1.5H2O nest-like structures

• Nest-like (NH4)2V6O16·1.5H2O structures have been facilely synthesized.
• A hydrothermal method has been employed.
• A reaction mechanism for the formation of (NH4)2V6O16·1.5H2O structures is discussed.

Novel nest-like (NH4)2V6O16·1.5H2O structures made of nanobelts have been synthesized by a facile hydrothermal approach. The powder X-ray diffraction pattern of the sample reveals the monoclinic crystalline phase of (NH4)2V6O16·1.5H2O. The scanning electron microscopy images of the sample obtained at 130 °C for 3 days exhibit nest-like morphology. The transmission electron microscopy result reveals that the nanobelts have a smooth surface. The selected area electron diffraction pattern of the nanobelts indicates single crystalline nature. The two major weight losses occur in thermogravimetric analysis which correspond to the removal of water and ammonia molecules. Further, calcination of the (NH4)2V6O16·1.5H2O product results in the formation of orthorhombic phase of shcherbianite V2O5.