Synthesis and characterization of self-assembled three-dimensional flower-like iron(III) oxide–indium(III) oxide binary nanocomposites

Three-dimensional (3D) flower-like iron(III) oxide–indium(III) oxide (Fe2O3–In2O3) binary metal oxide nanocomposites were successfully fabricated by a simple and economical route based on an efficient ethylene glycol mediated process. Effects of the experimental parameters such as the ratio of Fe to In, type of acid absorber, solvent, and reaction temperature and time on the morphology of the nanocomposite were discussed in detail. The nanocomposites Fe2O3–In2O3 with flower-like morphology were readily obtained by annealing the precursor. The possible reaction mechanism leading to the precursor and the self-assembly process was also proposed. The results of the thermogravimetric analyses indicated that 3D flower-like Fe2O3–In2O3 binary metal oxide nanocomposites can be used as fillers to significantly enhance the thermal resistance of silicone rubber under nitrogen.