Characterization and synthesis of KTa0.1Nb0.9O3 particles via high temperature mixing method under hydrothermal conditions

KTa0.1Nb0.9O3 (KTN) particles with an orthorhombic perovskite structure have been synthesized via a high temperature mixing method (HTMM) under hydrothermal conditions. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), and high-resolution transmission electron microcopy (HRTEM). The influence of alkaline concentration and solvent composition on the phase structure and morphology of the obtained powders was investigated. The results show that the well-crystallized KTN powders with sizes of 200–500 nm are successfully prepared at temperatures as low as 240 °C when the KOH concentration is 2.0 M and the isopropanol/water (I/W) volume ratio equals to 100/0.

Graphical abstractThis figure shows TEM (a) and HRTEM images (b) of the KTN particles (inset is the corresponding SAED patterns) prepared via HTMM from the starting solution with an I/W volume ratio of 100/0 and 2.0 M KOH. The well-crystallized KTN powders with sizes of 200–500 nm are successfully prepared under this condition.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► In this study we used a modified hydrothermal process, HTMM to prepare the KTN particles. ► Hydro/solvothermal process provides a milder synthesis condition than hydrothermal. ► Well crystallized KTN particles with size of about 200 nm are prepared.