Synthesis and sintering behavior of La0.8Sr0.2CrO3 by a glycine nitrate process

La0.8Sr0.2CrO3 powder was synthesized by a glycine nitrate process from an aqueous solution of lanthanum, strontium, and chromium nitrates, and glycine. The apparent density, size and morphology of the La0.8Sr0.2CrO3 powder depended on the glycine-to-nitrate ratio. However, the pH value of the precursor solution had no significant effect on these properties. It was found that a single-phase perovskite, La0.8Sr0.2CrO3, was synthesized when the dried ash was calcined at 1200 °C for 5 h. A secondary minor phase, SrCrO4, was observed in the powder calcined at temperatures lower than 1100 °C. The presence of the SrCrO4 phase has a significant effect on the sinterability and microstructural evolution of the La0.8Sr0.2CrO3. A relative density higher than 90% could be achieved when the 1000 °C-calcined La0.8Sr0.2CrO3 powder was sintered at 1450 °C.