Synthesis and properties of thermostable γ-alumina prepared by hydrolysis of phosphide aluminum

A thermostable phosphor-containing γ-alumina was prepared by hydrolysis of phosphide aluminum and the properties were investigated. The phase structure and thermal stability were studied by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that the alumina crystal was nano-particle and had high α-phase transformation temperature and prominent thermal stability. After calcined at 1473 K for 3 h, the surface area of the alumina was 71 m2/g and the main phase was transition alumina. The results of infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy suggested that a few phosphors dispersed highly in the bulk of γ-alumina after calcinations at 773 K. Thus, the thermal stability of γ-alumina was promoted greatly. The increase of calcination temperature resulted in the phosphor migrating from the bulk of alumina to the surface. In addition, various intensities of Lewis acid centers were observed on the surface of the γ-alumina.