A new approach for the synthesis of monodisperse zirconia powders with controlled particle size

In this work, the synthesis of hydrous zirconia by controlled double-jet precipitation (CDJP) was carried out in the pH range from 3 to 8. The evolution of particle shape and size during precipitation was investigated. It was found that at pH 3, 7, and 8 during the precipitation process there is no significant change in particle size, the suspension was gel-like, particles actively aggregated during drying. A gradual increase in particle size and a decrease in particle size dispersion specific for layer-by-layer aggregation was observed during CDJP at pH 4 to 6. The resulting particles do not aggregate and retain a rounded globular shape with a narrow size distribution during drying. Samples obtained at a pH above 6 are characterized after drying by a high specific surface area and porosity, as well as a reduced content of NO3- ions. The effect of pH precipitation on the phase composition and crystallite size of calcined samples was discussed. (C) 2021 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The synthesis of hydrous zirconia by controlled double-jet precipitation (CDJP) at different pH values resulted in particles with varying shapes and size distributions. At pH 4 to 6, particles exhibited layer-by-layer aggregation, while samples obtained at pH above 6 had high specific surface area and porosity.