Abstract
Owing to the combined advantages of Al-Si alloy and Al2O3, Al-Si@Al2O3 is widely utilized as a heat storage material, catalyst carrier and what adsorption host. Hence, the preparation of Al-Si@Al2O3 and corresponding precursors is of utmost significance. Herein, Al-Si@Al(OH)3 precursor is investigated and Al(OH)3 nanosheets are in-situ formed on the surface of Al-xSi alloy (x = 10, 20 and 30) in the presence of water. The influence of Si content, diameter of Al-Si particles and heating parameters on morphology and thickness of Al(OH)3 nanosheets is systematically explored using X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms. The growth mechanism of Al(OH)3 nanosheets is revealed and a pathway to obtain Al-Si@Al2O3 nanosheets with desired structure and thickness is demonstrated.