Multifunctional response of anatase nanostructures based on 25 nm mesocrystal-like porous assemblies

Mesocrystals are colloidal crystals whose elemental units are nanocrystals (size within the mesoscale) that all grow oriented in the same crystallographic direction. [1] Part of the interest in mesocrystals or, specifically, in mesocrystal-like porous nanostructures (MLPNs) is that their behavior is similar to single crystals while preserving nanoscale capabilities. We know that nanoscale capabilities are essential in many applications, including healthcare, catalysis, and energy storage, [2] but we also know that many properties depend on the number of crystalline defects and the type of exposed facets. [2c,3] The unique characteristics of MLPNs, such as good and uniform crystallinity, high surface area, and pore accessibility, could, thus, bring benefits to different fields. [4] Particularly, we are of the opinion that small anatase, a TiO2 polymorph, MLPNs could be of interest in photocatalysis, energy storage devices, and healthcare applications. © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.Financial support from Spain Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovacion under projects MAT2008-03224 and MAT2008-03182 is acknowledged.Peer Reviewe