Zirconium phosphate (ZrP)-based functional materials: Synthes..

Abstract

Abstract

[en]

 Highlights: • Synthesis methods, structures and properties of various types of ZrP-based materials are introduced. • Mechanisms and technologies of intercalation and exfoliation of layered ZrP materials are discussed. • Recent studies on performance of ZrP-based materials in various applications are summarized. • Current challenges and potential research topics for further studies on ZrP-based materials are proposed. Zirconium phosphate (ZrP) and its organic derivative, zirconium phosphonate, increasingly attract research interest due to their outstanding physical and chemical properties, both in their amorphous and in their crystalline phases. These include an extremely high ion-exchange capability, high aspect ratio, excellent thermal stability and good biocompatibility. These superior properties, along with their simple synthesization, functionalization and easily controlled morphology, make ZrP-based materials promising candidates for a wide range of applications. The excellent performance of ZrP-based materials used as catalysts, flame retardants, drug delivery agents, lubrication modifiers, electrolyte membranes in fuel cells, and anti-corrosive agents, has been widely reported. This review will provide an introduction to the structures, properties and related synthesization technologies of various types of ZrP-based materials, followed by a discussion of recent developments in their functional applications.