Template-free synthesis of TiO2 microspheres with tunable particle size via a non-aqueous sol-gel process

TiO2 microspheres with tunable particle size were prepared in alcohols without a template via a facile non-aqueous sol-gel process, on the basis of an ester elimination mechanism. The diameter of TiO2 microspheres in the range of 0.4-2.9 mu m was controlled by the ratio of methanol in the solvent.