Synthesis and characterizations of NiTiO3 nanoparticles prepared by the sol-gel process

Nanocrystalline nickel titanate (NiTiO3) composite powders were prepared by the sol-gel process combined with a surfactant-assisted template method. The resulting powders were calcined at different temperatures ranging from 150 degrees C to 750 degrees C for 2 h in air. The results revealed that a pure hexagonal phase of NiTiO3 could be obtained at the low temperature of 750 degrees C. The phase evolution of NiTiO3 was investigated by X-ray diffraction patterns, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Particle size and morphology were studied by transmission electron microscopy.