Synthesis and characterization of Er2O3 nanorods and nanosheets

It is very important to develop a new synthetic route for lanthanide metal oxides with novel morphologies and having different fundamental properties and application performances. Here, we report Er2O3 nanorods and nanosheets prepared by a facile hydrothermal method followed by post-thermal annealing treatment. Thermal treatment of Er4O2(OH)8(HNO3) and Er2O5H4 was carried out to form the nanorods and nanosheets, respectively. Their physicochemical properties were evaluated by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction crystallography, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared (IR) spectroscopy, Ultraviolet-visible-near IR absorption spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The synthesis method and novel fundamental properties provide valuable information for the development of Er complexes and oxides.