Effect of vibro-milling time on phase formation and particle size of lead zirconate nanopowders

A perovskite phase of lead zirconate, PbZrO3, nanopowder was synthesized by a solid-state reaction via a rapid vibro-milling technique. The effect of milling time on the phase formation and particle size of PbZrO3 powder was investigated. Powder samples were characterized using TG–DTA, XRD, SEM and laser diffraction techniques. It was found that an average particle size of 50 nm was achieved at 25 h of vibro-milling after which a higher degree of particle agglomeration was observed upon continuation of milling to 35 h. In addition, by employing an appropriate choice of milling time, a narrow particle size distribution curve was also observed.