Microwave-assisted solvothermal synthesis of chrysanthemum-like-VO2 architecture

Microflower-like VO2 architectures were successfully synthesized by means of a novel microwave-assisted solvothermal process using no templates and commercial V2O5 powders as precursors. A self-assembled hierarchical chrysanthemum architecture of 1.2 mu m in diameter formed by VO2 (B) oval petals with either an acute or obtuse apex was achieved without further calcination at 160 degrees C. This formation process can be possible due to the oriented attachment of the crystal growth. The microwaves produced a faster 2-step and more uniform heat distribution that could catalyze the self-assembly of these microstructures from layered materials to a chrysanthemum-like architecture.