Feature and future of hydrothermal/solvothermal reactions for synthesis/preparation of nano-materials with desired shapes, sizes and structures

Hydrothermal reactions have widely been recognized in natural and artificial systems on the earth^1,2). Particularly, the formation, production, alteration, decomposition of all substances and materials in natural systems are always related with the action of water (aqueous solutions) at higher temperatures under pressures. The origin and development of life might be influenced by the action of aqueous solutions most probably around the hydrothermal vents in deep sea²⁾. Not only the bio-systems but also artificial materials systems can be related to the actions of water.