Direct synthesis of thermochromic VO{sub 2} through hydrothermal reaction

Thermochromic VO{sub 2} was directly synthesized using hydrothermal techniques. The effects of formation conditions on the structure and morphology of the final product were studied through X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Unique hollow sphere morphology was observed for the synthesized VO{sub 2} powders. Ex-situ XRD studies after heat treatment confirmed the thermal stability of the VO{sub 2} structure. Thermochromic properties, as a consequence of the reversible structural transformation between monoclinic VO{sub 2} and tetragonal phases, were observed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). - Graphical abstract: Thermochromic VO{sub 2} crystals with hollow spherical and asterisk shape were directly synthesized using hydrothermal techniques. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) studies confirmed the thermal stability and the reversible thermochromic properties of the VO{sub 2} structure. - Highlights: • One-step synthesis of thermochromic VO{sub 2} monoclinic phase, and VO{sub 2} (A and B phases) using hydrothermal technique. VO{sub 2} (A), VO{sub 2} (B). • Identification of the relationship between synthesis conditions and the morphology/structure of the final products. • Formation of VO{sub 2} monoclinic phase with an interesting hollow sphere shape. • Demonstration of superior thermal stability of the VO{sub 2} monoclinic phase. • Characterizing the thermochromic properties of VO{sub 2} monoclinic phase.