Gel-sol synthesis and aging effect on highly crystalline anatase nanopowder

Abstract

Highly crystalline TiO2 anatase nanoparticles were synthesized via gel-sol method by using titanium isopropoxide and triethanolamine. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis and nitrogen gas absorption methods. The particle size ranged from 7 to 24 nm having specific surface area of 64 to 220 m2/g. Selective Ti(OH)4 gel specifications and hydrothermal test conditions resulted in thermodynamically- stable phase-formation. Aging at 130°C for 4 h resulted in particle size of 7 nm; while at 130 and 160°C for 12 h resulted in 12 and 21 nm, respectively. © Indian Academy of Sciences.