The additives W, Mo, Sn and Fe for promoting the formation of VO2(M) and its optical switching properties

Belt-like X-doped VO2(M) (X=W, Mo, Sn or Fe) with rectangular cross sections were successfully synthesized by a facile one-pot hydrothermal approach. The as-obtained samples were characterized by XRD, XPS, SEM, DSC and variable-temperature IR. The results showed that the additives W, Mo, Sn and Fe could promote the formation of VO2(M) under hydrothermal conditions. The additives had little influence on the morphology of doped VO2(M), but they were the key factor for the synthesis of VO2(M). The W and Mo atoms could effectively reduce the Tc of VO2(M), while Sn and Fe atoms had little influence on Tc. Furthermore, it was found that the as-obtained doped VO2(M) possessed prominent thermochromic properties and optical switching characters.

The additives W, Mo, Sn and Fe can promote the formation of VO2(M) under the hydrothermal conditions.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► one-pot hydrothermal route was developed to fabricate belt-like doped VO2(M).
► Additives W, Mo, Sn and Fe can promote the formation of VO2(M).
► Additives have little influence on the morphology of doped VO2(M).
► W and Mo can reduce Tc of VO2(M), while Sn and Fe have little influence on Tc.
► Doped VO2(M) has thermochromic characters and optical switching properties.