A novel chemical route for the preparation of nanocrystalline PZT powder

Nanocrystalline lead zirconate titanate (PZT) powders were prepared starting from the solution of Ti (IV), Zr (IV), Ph (II) ions complexed with organic acids and amines. The complex solutions after complete evaporation decomposed and produced fluffy masses, which after calcination at lower temperature in comparison to solid-state method yield the desired phase of PZT. Various complexing agents such as oxalic acid, tartaric acid, ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA), diethanolamine (DEA) have been used to influence the particle size and dielectric property in the PZT system. The precursors and the heat-treated powders are characterized by TG/DTA, XRD, and TEM analysis. The precursors obtained from the mixed solution of Ti (IV)-Zr (IV)-X/Pb (II)-EDTA (where X = oxalic acid, and tartaric acid) and Ti (IV)-Zr (IV)-Pb (II)-Y (where Y = Diethanolamine) produce pure PZT phase at 600 degrees C, 400 degrees C, 200 degrees C, respectively. The corresponding average particle sizes are 60, 30, and 25 nm. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.