Metal oxide nanoparticles

Facile routes to metal oxide and mixed metal oxide nanomaterials, with control over the resulting particle size and composition, are highly desirable due to their wide-ranging potential applications. The degree of control possible over the resulting products, in terms of particle size and morphology and chemical composition, also affords tunability of the nanostructure functionality. Here, we focus on the latest synthetic developments for the preparation of metal oxides, with a special emphasis on routes which yield high quality materials in high yields. In particular, we examine in detail advances made in the formation of nanocrystals, hollow nanostructures and hybrid materials. The use of advanced characterisation techniques, which can expose the underpinning structure–function properties in these materials, is also highlighted where appropriate.