Self organized ZrO2 nanotubes/nanopores by anodization


Formation of ZrO2 can be achieved by electrochemical anodization in a variety of conditions. Under optimized conditions, highly ordered porous structures with pore openings of approx. 50 nm in diameter are formed, consisting of highly parallel nano-tubular shape with high aspect ratios(Fig. 1). This structure can be exploited for some applications such as catalysts or sensors due to extremely high surface area.


Fig. 1 SEM images of anodic porous zirconium oxide layers.