In-situ oxidation of block copolymer for producing copper oxalate or copper oxide nanowires in mesoporous channels

Copper oxalate nanowires inside the channels of mesoporous SBA-15 are created by in-situ oxidation of block copolymer in as-prepared SBA-15 samples. The pyrolysis of CuC2O4/SBA-15 composites under different conditions results in the formation of CuO or Cu2O nanowires encapsulated in the nanoscale channels. The appearance, structure and composition of these materials are characterized by the X-ray power diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, infrared spectra and inductive coupled plasma emission spectra. CuC2O4, CuO and Cu2O nanomaterials filled in the channels of SBA-15 have been proven to possess the electrochemical hydrogen storage capacities of 102, 165 and 231 mAh/g in the second cycle, respectively, and are expected to have a high potential for use in practical applications.