Thermal evolution of nanosized LaFeO3 powders from a heteronuclear complex, La[Fe(CN)6]•nH2O

The thermal decomposition of a heteronuclear complex, La[Fe(CN)(6)]. nH(2)O, leads to the preparation of nanosized perovskite-type LaFeO3 powders. The exothermic decomposition of the cyanide groups at 300 degrees C, starting abruptly and the formation of LaFeO3 without the presence of single oxides such as La2O3 and Fe2O3 were observed. The formation of LaFeO3 from the complex involves the formation of carbonates and nitrates, which facilitate the formation of nanosized LaFeO3 powders. Concomitantly formed carbonate and nitrate decomposed gradually and the specific surface area of nanosized LaFeO3 increased up to 38 m(2) g(-1) at 350 degrees C. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.