Cobalt–iron cyanide hollow cubes: Three-dimensional self-assembly and magnetic properties

Cobalt–iron cyanide hollow cubes have been synthesized via a poly(vinylpyrrolidone) assisted solvothermal route. A unique formation process: self-assembly followed by Ostwald ripening process, has been put forward to take account for the construction of hollow cubes. The rod-like nanocrystals first assemble as porous cubes via an oriented attachment process. Then, the porous cubes undergo an Ostwald-ripening process, which create interior spaces and result in the formation of hollow cubes. The magnetic property investigation reveals that K0.22Co0.58Fe2.2(CN)6 hollow cubes exhibit a ferromagnetic behavior.

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► We synthesize cobalt–iron cyanide hollow cubes via a solvothermal route.
► The hollow cubes is formed through a self-assembly process followed by Ostwald ripening process.
► The hollow cubes are ferromagnetic.