Effect of Sm3+ and Sr2+ dopants on the FT-IR, photoluminescence and surface texture of lanthanum chromite nano particles

Lanthanum chromite LaCrO3 nanoparticles substituted by Sm3+ and/or Sr2+ ions from molar ratio 0-0.3 have been synthesized via a novel gel auto-combustion process using triethanol amine as an organic complexing agent. The results reveal that a well crystalline single phase of pure LaCrO3 phase can be obtained at annealing temperature from 800 to 1000 degrees C for 2 h. Furthermore, addition of Sm3+ and/or Sr2+ ions has significant effects on the crystal structure, lattice parameters and the microstructure of the produced lanthanum chromite. SEM and TEM micrographs show that the particles appear as nanoclusters octahedral like structure. FT-IR absorption spectra confirm the change of the crystal structure, unit cell volume and the microstructure of nanocrystalline doped LaCrO3 phase. Photoluminescence (PL) absorption intensities are affected by the presence of impurity phases due to the substituted Sm3+ and Sr2+ ions. Highest surface area (273.8 m(2)/g) is achieved by increasing Sm3+ ions to 0.3 molar ratio. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.