Proton exchange growth to mesoporous WO3·0.33H2O structure with highly photochromic sensitivity

Enhancing surface area is one of the efficient ways to improve photochromic sensitivity of WO3·0.33H2O. Hierarchical WO3·0.33H2O mesoporous nanorod assemblies were synthesized via proton exchange by adjusting the concentration of Na2WO4·2H2O. When the concentration of Na2WO4·2H2O is 2.0 g L−1, mesoporous nanorods with 10∼20 nm in diameter and an average pores size of about 4 nm were obtained. The novel WO3·0.33H2O porous structure possesses highly photochromic sensitivity and fatigue resistance properties. It exhibits visible-light-driven photochromic response due to large specific surface area originated from the mesoporous structure. The formation of mesopores is due to the volume decreasing in the transformation process from WO3·H2O to WO3·0.33H2O.

Hierarchical WO3·0.33H2O mesoporous nanorod assemblies are synthesized through proton exchange route and exhibit highly photochromic sensitivity.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► WO3·0.33H2O mesoporous nanorod assemblies was synthesized via proton exchange.
► It possesses highly photochromic sensitivity and fatigue resistance properties.
► The formation of mesopores is due to the volume decreasing.