Short range order evolution in the preparation of SnO2 based materials

The evolution of EU(3+) doped SnO2 xerogels to the cassiterite structure observed during sintering was studied by means of EU(3+) spectroscopy, XRD and EXAFS at the Sn K-edge. EU(3+) ions adsorbed at the surface of colloidal particles present a broad distribution of sites, typical of oxide glasses. With sintering at 300 degrees C, this distribution is still broadened. Crystallization is clearly observed by the three techniques with increasing sintering temperature. It is found that the addition of EU(3+) limits the crystallite growth.