VO(2) (B) nanobelts were prepared by a hydrothermal method at 180 degrees C using V(2)O(5)center dot nH(2)O sol and H(2)C(2)O(4)center dot 2H(2)O as starting agents. The obtained nanobelts have diameters ranging from 50 to 100 nm in width, 20-30 nm in thickness with lengths up to 1.5 mu m. Measurements of the static magnetic susceptibility provide evidence for two phase transitions at T(1) = 225 K and T(2) = 290 K, respectively. Below T(1), the data suggest the presence quasi-free as well as of strongly antiferromagnetic correlated spins associated to V(4+)-ions. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.