Transformation of β-Ni(OH)2 to NiO nano-sheets via surface nanocrystalline zirconia coating:: Shape and size retention

Shape and size of the synthesized NiO nano-sheets were retained during transformation of sheet-like beta-Ni(OH)(2) to NiO at elevated temperatures via nano-sized zirconia coating on the surface of beta b-Ni(OH)(2). The average grain size was 6.42 nm after 600 degrees C treatment and slightly increased to 10 nm after 1000 degrees C treatment, showing effective sintering retardation between NiO nano-sheets. The excellent thermal stability revealed potential application at elevated temperatures, especially for high temperature catalysts and solid-state electrochemical devices.