Controlled synthesis of tungsten trioxide with globular clusters constructed of nanoplates by rapid breakdown anodization

Herein, the electrochamical synthesis of tungsten trioxide (WO3·H2O) with globular clusters constructed of nanoplates is demonstrated. On applying a breakdown anodization potential of 25 V at 50 °C, tungsten foil anode is efficiently electro-oxidized into WO3 globular clusters constructed of nanoplates powder, instead of a thin film structure as conventional anodization occurs. The resulting globular clusters were characterized using SEM, TEM, and XRD. The effect of the composition of electrolyte on the breakdown anodization of the W substrate is discussed. And we suggest that the growth of the nanoplates is initiated by localized anodic dielectric breakdown, followed by a effectively crystal growth in electrolyte at high breakdown field.