Facile Synthesis of Lithium Niobate Squares by a Combustion Route

Abstract

A combustion synthesis of lithium niobate (LN) squares from activated niobium oxide (Nb2O5·nH2O) and Li2CO3 was studied to understand all the chemical reactions involved, and the nucleation and square‐growth mechanisms. It was found that first the lithium ions react with the fuel (urea), then niobium ions of Nb2O5·nH2O begin a continuous reaction with the fuel to form metal‐organic complexes. LN nuclei are formed by the solid‐state reaction of Li‐ and Nb‐organic complexes at 430°C. Lithium niobate squares are obtained in the crystallization stage at 700°C, which go on to grow into larger squares at 850°C because of the agglomeration effect.