Three-dimensionalization of ultrathin nanosheets in a two-dimensional nano-reactor: macroporous CuO microstructures with enhanced cycling performance.

Three-dimensional (3D) macroporous CuO structures composed of ultrathin nanosheets were successfully synthesized by employing a liquid-liquid interface as a two-dimensional (2D) nano-reactor. The macroporous structure helped CuO to retain the exposed surface during reactions, thus significantly enhancing the long term cycling performance both in photocatalysis and lithium ion batteries.

HF-free synthesis of anatase TiO2 nanosheets with largely exposed and clean {001} facets and their enhanced rate performance as anodes of lithium-ion battery.

An interface between toluene and water was utilized to synthesize ca. 10 nm thick of anatase TiO2 nanosheets (NSs) with 82% exposure of {001} facets. In this procedure, highly corrosive and toxic HF, which was generally used to prepare TiO2 NSs with largely exposed high energy facets, was avoided.