Selective Synthesis of Co3O4 Nanocrystal with Different Shape and Crystal Plane Effect on Catalytic Property for Methane Combustion

We have succeeded in synthesizing Co (3) O (4) nanosheets, nanobelts, and nanocubes with a hydrothermal process of cobalt hydroxide precursor and subsequent direct thermal decomposition. The predominantly exposed planes are 112, 011, and 001, respectively. The methane combustion catalytic activity order of crystal planes follows 112 > 011 >> 001. The selective synthesis of transition metal oxides with uniform and different reactive crystal planes under nanoscale conditions is expected to bring up new opportunities for design, tuning, and control of chemical activity, specificity, and selectivity.