Synthesis of Li2TiO3 by sol–gel combustion method and its gel-casting formation

Lithium metatitanate (Li2TiO3) has been recognized as a candidate of ceramic tritium breeder materials for its excellent performance. In this paper, Li2TiO3 powder was synthetized by a modified sol–gel combustion process, and the ratio of fuel to oxidizer was optimized. DTA–TG analysis indicated that an intense exothermic reaction occurred at 539 K, which led to the formation of a voluminous white powder. No additional annealing process was required, as pure crystalline β-Li2TiO3 was directly obtained from the combustion reaction. The powder had nano-scale structure and large specific surface area of 9.6 m2/g. Li2TiO3 pebbles with desired size and shape were prepared by gel-casting technique using the as-prepared powder. The pebbles reached a high density (81–86% T.D) after sintered at a relatively low temperature (⩽1373 K) for 2 h. The sintering pebbles had a smooth surface, homogeneous microstructure and small grain size.