Characterization and thermal behavior of PrMO3 (M = Co or Ni) ceramic materials obtained from gelatin

Metal oxides with perovskite-type structure have attracted considerable interest in recent years due to their magnetic and electrical properties, as well as their catalytic activity. In this study, oxides with PrNiO3 and PrCoO3 composition were prepared by using gelatin powder as a precursor agent for its use as a catalyst. The powders obtained were calcined at 700 °C and 900 °C and characterized using the X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis (thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis), infrared spectroscopy, temperature programed reduction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. Thermogravimetric data using the non-isothermal kinetic models of Flynn and Wall and “Model-free Kinetics” were used to determine the activation energy to study the decomposition kinetics of the ligand groups with system's metallic ions that takes part in the synthesis of PrMO3 (M = Ni or Co).

The micrograph in figure shows sample calcined at temperature 900 °C. The sample exhibits morphology with considerable porosity and the formation of agglomerated nanometric particles. Gelatin provides the system with a large amount of organic matter, which is then removed during calcinations, favoring the appearance of pores in the material.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Oxides with PrNiO3 and PrCoO3 were prepared by new method synthesis.
► The gelatin, through its carboxylate groups and amine, is an efficient director.
► The obtained materials have magnetic properties and application in catalysis.
► The decomposition kinetic study of bonding groups of gelatin with metallic ions that takes part in the synthesis of PrMO3.