Synthesis of ceramic powders from metal alkoxides

Abstract

Ceramic powders can be synthesized from metal alkoxides by a variety of methods including comminuted gels, controlled hydrolysis (the Stober, Fink and Bohn method), emulsions and aerosol hydrolysis/pyrolysis. Recent progress in each of these processes is reviewed in terms of the effect of process parameters on particle size, chemistry and morphology with an emphasis on those conditions leading to discrete, spherical colloids.