Synthesis and characterization of ZrO2 capsules and crystalline ZrO2 thin layers on Fe2O3 powders

A novel solution deposition process has been developed to prepare thin crystalline ZrO2 layers on particle surfaces. The thickness and morphology of the ZrO2 layers can be controlled by using surfactants under different reaction conditions. A needle-shaped monoclinic ZrO2 array was formed by a multi-step deposition process with surfactants. Hollow ZrO2 capsules that were obtained by dissolving the nanoparticle cores exhibited obvious photocatalytic properties for the degradation of Rhodamine B. This is a general process that can form crystalline layers coated on matrix core particles in solution.