Quantification of MgO surface excess on the SnO2 nanoparticles and relationship with nanostability and growth

▶ Surface excess in MgO doped SnO2 nanoparticles plays an important role in the system's energetics and size stability. ▶ The amount of Mg ions on the surface was directly related to the nanoparticles total free energy, in a sense that the dopant will always spontaneously distribute itself to minimize it if enough diffusion is provided. ▶ The effect of MgO on the surface was particularly important and has a direct effect on the equilibrium particle size (nanoparticle stability).