Synthesis and characterization of β type solid solution in the binary system of Bi2O3-Eu2O3

Abstract

We have investigated Bi2O3-Eu2O3 binary system by doping with Eu2O3 in the composition range from 1 to 10 mole% via solid state reactions and succeeded to stabilize β-Bi2O3 phase which is metastable when pure. Stability of β-Bi2O3 polymorph was influenced by heat treatment temperature. Tetragonal type solid solution was obtained in 3-6 mole% addition range when annealed at 750°C and the range was 2-7 mole% when annealed at 800°C. We have also carried out investigations on lattice parameters, micro-structural properties and elemental compositions of this β type solid solution for each doping ratio. Lattice parameters increased with amount of Eu2O3 addition. Our experimental observations strongly suggested that oxygen deficiency type non-stoichiometry is present in doped β solid solutions.