Unique hexagonal non-close-packed arrays of alumina obtained by plasma etching/deposition with catalytic performance

Abstract

A hexagonal non-close-packed (hncp) amorphous alumina nanocolumn array with unique hierarchical micro-/nano-structures was fabricated by plasma etching and deposition using a polystyrene colloidal monolayer as a template in a relatively high vacuum (0.06 Pa) of the background Ar gas. The hncp, amorphous, hierarchical alumina nanocolumn array demonstrates excellent catalytic performance in ethyl acetoacetate isomerization due to its large surface area and special microstructures, suggesting that the surface area plays a vital role in enhancing catalytic activity, which may make it a valuable candidate for selective adsorption and catalysis.