Synthesis of monodispersed La2Ce2O7 nanocrystals via hydrothermal method: A study of crystal growth and sintering behavior

Monodispersed and uniformly distributed La2Ce2O7 nanocrystals were synthesized via the hydrothermal method using polyethyleneglycol (PEG) as surfactant. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric analysis/Differential scanning calorimeter (TG/DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy and High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) were utilized to characterize the thermal decomposition, phase structure and morphology of the products. Qualitative analysis indicates that the products are comprised of well-dispersed square particles with cubic fluorite structure. The specific surface area and the average crystallite size of the as-prepared products are 195.59 m2 g− 1 and 10–15 nm, respectively. The low effective activation energy (15.27 ± 0.03 kJ mol− 1) for crystal growth was obtained in the calcination temperature range of 700–1300 °C. The sintering behavior of the compacted body was also investigated, revealing that La2Ce2O7 has a low relative density and open channel morphology.

►As-prepared products are comprised of well-dispersed square particles in cubic structure. ►The lower activation energy is observed which has closed relationship with oxygen vacancies. ►The specific surface area and average crystallite size of products are 195.59 m2 g− 1 and 10–15 nm. ►The sintered compacted body has a lower relative density and open channel morphology.