Low‐Temperature Synthesis of BiFeO3 via PVA Sol–Gel Route

Abstract

Bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) powders were synthesized by a sol–gel process using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a complexing agent. Thermogravimetric, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and field‐emission scanning electron microscope techniques were used to characterize precursor and derived oxide powders. The effect of the ratios of positively charged valences to hydroxyl groups of PVA (Mn+/–OH) on the formation of BiFeO3 was investigated. XRD analysis showed that single‐phase and well‐crystallized BiFeO3 was obtained from the Mn+/–OH=2:1 precursor at a temperature as low as 400°C. For the precursor with Mn+/–OH=4:1, BiFeO3 formed only at the temperature of 600°C. With Mn+/–OH=1:1 and 1.5:1 precursor, pure BiFeO3 powder was not obtained. In present work, single‐phase BiFeO3 can be formed at lower temperature and less organics are required; furthermore, the process is simple and easy to control.