Biomineralization Strategy to α-Mn2O3 Hierarchical Nanostructures

Here, we report on the synthesis of alpha-Mn2O3 complex nanostructures through heat-treatment of the precursor MnCO3 (in similar structure and size) synthesized by a biomineralization route. The phase, microstructure, and morphology of the obtained sample were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrum, Raman spectrum, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The self-assembly mechanism of the precursor of MnCO3 is discussed. The alpha-Mn2O3 show two weak antiferromagnetic transition Neel temperatures at similar to 78.3 and similar to 15.8 K and a Curie-Weiss temperature at 48.5 K. Also, the alpha-Mn2O3 hierarchical nanostructures present superhydrophobicity with a contact angle over 150 degrees.