Template-based electrophoretic growth of PbZrO₃ nanotubes

Lead zirconate (PbZrO₃) nanotubes have been grown using porous anodic alumina templates. Sol–gel electrophoresis technique was utilized to form the nanotubes on the pore walls. The alumina templates were prepared using various anodizing voltages and times to achieve different pore diameters and lengths. Phosphoric acid solution was employed as the anodizing electrolyte. Stabilized lead zirconate sols were prepared using lead acetate trihydrate and an alkoxide precursor of zirconium. Acetic acid was used as the modifier. The prepared sols were driven into the template channels under various electrophoretic voltages and times, and the effect of the electrophoresis parameters on the formation of nanotubes was investigated. The filled templates were dried at 100 °C and sintered at 700 °C. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) investigations demonstrated the tubular form of the lead zirconate arrays. The SEM investigations also showed the nanotubes have been efficiently grown in the template pores. The TEM studies further confirmed the polycrystalline nature of the tubes.