Hollow flower-like ZnO: Synthesis, growth mechanism and application in polyacrylate

Abstract Hollow flower-like ZnO (HF-ZnO) was fabricated via an ultrasonic-assisted hydrothermal method. The effect of pretreatment way and hydrothermal time on the morphology of ZnO was investigated to elucidate the growth mechanism of HF-ZnO. Subsequently, HF-ZnO was introduced into polyacrylate to form composite film, and the properties especially water vapor permeability and water resistance of which were measured. The results showed that HF-ZnO was assembled by 1D-cones as petals, on which had massive cavities. The method and sequence of pretreatment both played a vital role in the growth of HF-ZnO. The generation of HF-ZnO must be carried out under simultaneous existence of mechanical stirring and ultrasonic bathing. Flower-like structure of HF-ZnO was created in the step of pretreatment and hollow structure of HF-ZnO was produced in the step of hydrothermal. Compared with flower-like ZnO and hollow ZnO spheres, HF-ZnO was largely beneficial to the improvement of hygienic property of polyacrylate film. Moreover, the introduction of HF-ZnO enhanced the water resistance, tensile strength, UV resistance and anti-yellowing of polyacrylate film.