Morphology-controlled synthesis of nanostructured zinc hydroxide fluoride via a microwave-assisted ionic liquid route

Zinc hydroxide fluoride (Zn(OH)F) with multiform morphologies such as flower-like particles, pumpkin-like aggregates, and hollow orange-like aggregates are prepared by a microwave-assisted ionic liquid method. During synthesis, microwave irradiation accelerates the reaction rate and shortens the reaction time. 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmim][BF4]) or 1-2-hydroxylethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([C2OHmim][BF4]) is used as both reactant and template. Experimental results indicate that the morphology evolution of Zn(OH)F is mainly controlled by the concentration of zinc acetate solution. A possible mechanism underlying the formation of nanostructured Zn(OH)F with diverse morphologies is proposed. Furthermore, nanoporous ZnO is obtained by the thermal decomposition of as-prepared Zn(OH)F in air, and the morphology is well retained. [Display omitted] •Nanostructured Zn(OH)F with multiform morphologies is synthesized by a microwave-assisted ionic liquid method.•The effects of reactant concentration, volume ratio of water to ionic liquid, and microwave irradiation time are investigated.•The morphology evolution of Zn(OH)F is mainly controlled by the concentration of zinc acetate solution.•A possible mechanism underlying the formation of nanostructured Zn(OH)F with diverse morphologies is proposed.