Low-temperature synthesis and characterization of apatite-type lanthanum silicates

Abstract

Al- and Sr-doped apatite-type lanthanum silicates (ATLS) have been prepared using mechanochemical activation (MA) and Pechini (Pe) methods, with some structural and electrical properties of doped samples being studied. MA provides ATLS formation already at room temperature after 20–35 min activation. Synthesis via Pe route occurs through the solid state reaction mechanism. MA of carbonate precursors obtained via Pe method results in the formation of a single-phase ATLS after annealing at 900 °C. For Al-doped apatite samples formation of LaAlO 3 as a secondary phase is observed at high substitution levels depending on the sample stoichiometry, which affects properties of ceramics obtained.