Ti(IV)-doped γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles possessing unique textural and chemical properties: Enhanced suppression of phase transformation and promising catalytic activity

Nanostructured Ti(IV)-doped gamma-Fe2O3 was prepared via a sol-gel method, and the effect of doping on the phase stability, textural properties, and catalytic activity was investigated. Well-dispersed 10% Ti in gamma-Fe2O3 structure was found to significantly suppress its conversion to alpha-Fe2O3. While undoped product contained both phases, gamma- and alpha-Fe2O3, at 400 degrees C, its doped counterpart contained gamma-Fe2O3 as the sole phase at temperatures as high as 500 degrees C and partial conversion started only at 550 degrees C. Doping also resulted in modified textural properties, including smaller particles, larger surface areas, and higher mesoporosity, as well as enhanced reducibility and catalytic activity.