Fast and Green Hematite (α-Fe2O3) and Akaganeite (β-FeOOH) Synthesis Using a Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Process with Single Precursor and No Stabilizing Agent

Abstract

In this work, iron chloride (FeCl 3 .6H 2 O), a single reagent, was used to create the phases of hematite (α-Fe 2 O 3 ) and akaganeite (β-FeOOH) without the need of organic solvents using the microwave-assisted hydrothermal technique (HM). X-ray diffraction demonstrated the efficacy of the HM technique in the generation of crystalline phases of α-Fe 2 O 3 at 180 o C and β-FeOOH at 120 o C. The development of pseudo-cunic and stick-like particles was a result of changes in experimental variables, which also had a substantial impact on the materials structural characteristics. The nitrogen (N 2 ) adsorption/desorption isotherms of the samples containing akaganeite and hematite phase resembled those of mesoporous materials. Hematite has a surface area of 25.44 m 2 g -1 , while akaganeite has a surface area of 110.60 m 2 g -1 , according to the calculation. Thermodifferential and thermogravimetric techniques were used to assess thermal degradation. The use of microwave hydrothermal synthesis was promoted as being quick, easy, affordable, and safe for the environment.