Novel approach to the synthesis of core–shell particles by sacrificial polymer-shell method

In this work a new approach has been developed for the synthesis of SiO2@Y2O3 particles with core–shell structure. The method is based on the synthesis of a covalently bonded sacrificial polymer shell grown onto silica particles. It is suitable to promote and stabilize the adsorption of different ions, namely Yttrium from its nitrate solution. After calcination and consequent elimination of the sacrificial polymer shell, the SiO2@Y2O3 core–shell particles are obtained. Results reveal that the shell thickness of these core–shell particles is higher and more uniform than that of particles prepared without sacrificial polymer shell.