Low-temperature synthesis of single-phase crystalline LaNiO3 perovskite via Pechini method

LaNiO3 powders were prepared from polymeric precursors. The material was calcinated either under flowing oxygen or in air at temperatures ranging from 300 to 800 degreesC. The formation of new phases upon calcination was investigated using X-ray diffraction, thermal gravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and CHN analysis. The results revealed the formation of a single-phase powder having the perovskite structure at temperatures as low as 600 degreesC. The atmosphere did not significantly affect the final product. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.