Nanostructured Nb 2 O 5 catalysts

Abstract

Niobium pentoxide (Nb 2 O 5 ) has long been known to catalyze unique acid induced reactions, redox reductions and photo-catalytic reactions, etc. Recently, there have been significant advancements in tailoring the oxide materials with controlled structures and morphologies using nano-chemical synthesis by the help of surfactant or stabilizer for optimal catalytic performance. In this short review, we will particularly highlight these synthetic methods for preparation of Nb 2 O 5 nanostructures, their potential applications in catalysis and their structure-activity relationships. Keywords: niobium oxide; nanostructures; semi-conductor; crystal; facet; synthesis; catalysis (Published: 7 August 2012) Citation: Nano Reviews 2012, 3 : 17631 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/nano.v3i0.17631