Synthesis of nanocrystalline powders of yttrium aluminum garnet doped by neodymium

Abstract

Nanocrystalline powders of yttrium aluminum garnet were synthesized by the decomposition of gel formed by citrate metal complexes with ethylene glycol (the Pechini method). Using the Pechini method, it was possible to synthesize nanocrystalline garnet powders at a lower temperature than using the traditional coprecipitation of hydroxocarbonates. X-ray diffraction data showed that the size of coherent scattering of X-ray for the powders changes from 15 to 30 nm depending on the temperature and duration of synthesis. The crystalline phase of garnet is single in all nanocrystalline powders. The results of the studies suggest that the Pechini method makes it possible to obtain nanocrystalline sample powders at lower temperatures than those used in the traditional synthesis from coprecipitated hydroxocarbonates. The CSR size in the prepared powders depends on the synthesis conditions and ranges from 15 to 30 nm. Luminescence spectra and X-electronic spectra showed that short range order in amorphous powders is the same as in garnet crystal. The optimal conditions for powders as ceramic precursors are a temperature of 1000°C and treatment for from 2 to 4 h.