Simple synthesis of mesoporous boron nitride with strong cathodoluminescence emission

Mesoporous BN was prepared at 550 degrees C for 10 h or so via a simple reaction between NaBH4 and CO(NH2)(2). X-ray diffraction demonstrates the formation of t-BN with lattice constants a=2.46 and c=6.67 angstrom. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy displays a lot of porous films in the product, which possesses a high surface area of 219 m(2) g(-1) and a pore size primarily around 3.8 nm tested by nitrogen adsorption-desorption method. The mesoporous BN exhibits a strong luminescence emission around 3.41 eV in the cathodoluminescence spectra, a high stability in both morphology and structure, and good oxidation resistance up to 800 degrees C. The byproducts generated during the reaction are responsible for the formation of the mesoporous BN. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.