Dispersion control via crystal-phase modulation of yttrium-doped ZrO2 nanoparticle sol

Improved dispersibility of zirconia nanoparticles (ZrO2 NPs) is crucial in many optical applications, but traditional dispersion methods using dispersants or devices can be problematic. In this study, we propose a simple and novel dispersion method that controls the crystalline phase through yttrium (Y3+) doping to improve dispersibility. The ZrO2 NPs colloidal sol was developed using three precursors - acetate-based zirconia (A-ZrO2), acetate-based 3-yttria stabilized zirconia (A-3YSZ), and chloride-based 3-yttria stabilized zirconia (C-3YSZ). The A-3YSZ exhibited the most superior dispersibility among the samples due to its low surface energy. Furthermore, it maintained dispersibility even though precursor concentration increased up to 6 wt%. Our results show that A3YSZ is an effective inorganic filler for improving the refractive index of an acrylate-based coating solution. This is due to its excellent dispersibility and simple synthesis without requiring additional chemical modification and complicated dispersion processes.

Automated summary

In this study, a simple and novel dispersion method is proposed to improve the dispersibility of zirconia nanoparticles (ZrO2 NPs) by doping yttrium (Y3+) to control the crystalline phase. The results show that ZrO2 NPs with acetate-based 3-yttria stabilized zirconia (A-3YSZ) precursor exhibited the most superior dispersibility due to its low surface energy. It is found to be an effective inorganic filler for improving the refractive index of an acrylate-based coating solution.