Unusual dysprosium ceramic nano-fiber growth in a supercritical aqueous solution

The formation of nano-size ceramic fibers having diameters as small as 20 n m is described. This material was obtained by a simple precipitation reacti on from a supercritical aqueous dysprosium bromide solution at high tempera tures (450 degrees C). The nano-structures have unusually high structural s tability for extended time periods in this extreme solvent environment. The experimental procedures are described and analysis of the materials by sca nning and transition electron microscopy, and x-ray diffraction is presente d. The new materials may have useful applications as high-strength, corrosi on resistant materials or as stable catalyst supports for extreme condition s. (C) 2000 Kluwer Academic Publishers.