Partially stabilized tetragonal ZrO2 whiskers with preferred [001] direction derived from CaF2

Abstract The simultaneous control of crystal phase stability and one-dimensional growth has always been the major challenge for the preparation of tetragonal zirconia whiskers. In this study, we report a facile molten salt processing that utilizes CaF2 as a stabilizer and adsorbent to meet the phase and morphology requirements. The processes of stabilization, phase transition, ion adsorption and formation of special morphology involved in zirconia growth were investigated by XRD, IR, SEM, DTA-TG and TEM. By controlling the amount of CaF2 (15 wt.%) added in the reaction precursor, tetragonal zirconia whiskers with a desired aspect ratio (>16) can be synthesized, which show single crystalline nature and [001] preferred direction. Ca ions doped at low temperature inhibit the occurrence of phase transition, which allows the tetragonal structure to be retained to room temperature. The inducement and pattern of whisker growth are supposed to be F-adsorption and screw dislocation elongation, respectively. The specific selectivity of surface adsorbed ions to certain zirconia crystal planes reduces or even inhibits the epitaxial growth rate in this direction, offering a viable avenue for the morphology modulation of inorganic nanomaterials.