Synthesis and characterization of Dy(OH)3 and Dy2O3 nanotubes

Dy(OH)3 nanotubes with high aspect ratios of up to about 50 were synthesized in the presence of poly(ethylene glycol) via a hydrothermal method. Poly(ethylene glycol), as a nonionic surfactant, plays an important role in the formation of morphologies. Subsequent thermal treatment of Dy(OH)3 nanotube precursors at 450 degrees C for 6 h led to Dy2O3 nanotubes, during which the precursor tubular morphology was maintained. Selected-area electron diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy reveal the single-crystal nature of the Dy(OH)3 and Dy2O3 nanotubes. The morphologies and crystalline structure of the as-obtained products were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction, respectively. By this method, we can obtain a mass of products.