Formation of LiNbO3 Nanocrystals Using the Solvothermal Method

The optimization of the parameters of the solvothermal synthesis of lithium niobate (LiNbO3, LN) nanocrystals from Nb2O5 and LiOH was performed. The effects of polyol media, reaction time and Li excess of the starting reagents were investigated. According to the X-ray diffraction phase analysis, Li3NbO4 and Nb2O5 were also detected besides the LN phase in many samples depending on the ratio of the starting components and the reaction time. The best yield and the most homogeneous LN phase was prepared by using diethylene glycol medium with a Li/Nb ratio of 1.5 and a 72 h reaction time. The size and the shape of the LN particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The particle size distribution was narrow and under 100 nm for all cases.

Automated summary

The parameters optimization of solvothermal synthesis of lithium niobate (LiNbO3, LN) nanocrystals from Nb2O5 and LiOH was investigated. The effects of polyol media, reaction time, and Li excess on the phase composition were studied. The best yield and homogeneity of LN phase were achieved using diethylene glycol medium with a Li/Nb ratio of 1.5 and a 72 h reaction time. The LN particles exhibited a narrow size distribution and sizes below 100 nm, as characterized by scanning electron microscopy.