Organic-inorganic conversion process for material creation - Formation and function of characteristic nanostructures

In the case that an organometallic compound or an organic metal complex is used as the raw material in an "organic-inorganic conversion" process, the desired shape and characteristic nanostructure can be formed. This nanostructure can provide unique functionality and lead to the creation of original materials. From a fibrous form of polycarbosilane, which is an organosilicon polymer, made by melt spinning in an inert gas, continuous inorganic SiC fibers can be obtained. These fibers are not easily oxidized and their tensile strength does not decrease even in a high temperature in air. They can therefore be used in fiber-reinforced composite materials. Polycarbosilane is also an excellent binder for ceramic powder that is difficult to sinter. In addition, it is an excellent impregnation agent for ceramic compacts. Thus, preparation of ceramic compacts having high mechanical strength and oxidation resistance is possible using polycarbosilane. On the other hand, when bis(acetylacetonato)zinc; (Zn(acac)2), which is an organic metal complex, is made into a fibrous form by sublimation and pyrolysis with superheated steam, inorganic ZnO fibers can be obtained. Such fibers exhibit visible-light photocatalytic ability and effectively decompose volatile organic gases.