Shape-controlled growth of In(OH)3/In2O3 nanostructures by electrodeposition

In(OH)(3) nanostructures with controllable shapes were successfully synthesized using indium nitrate as an indium source by one-step electrodeposition process. The influences of the reaction temperature, time, indium nitrate concentration, and the applied potential on the morphology of the obtained products were discussed in detail. The results revealed that the growth behavior of In(OH)(3) was mainly determined by the indium nitrate concentration and applied potential, and well-defined ellipsoids, cubes, and rods could be prepared under suitable conditions. Their possible growth mechanisms as well as photocatalytic applications were addressed. Furthermore, In(2)O(3) nanostructures were obtained from In(OH)(3) upon heating, while size and morphology can be maintained during this process.