Synthesis and characterization of zinc titanate nano-crystal powders obtained by mechanical activation

Development of dielectric materials for microwave frequencies is increasing with rapid progress in mobile and satellite communications systems, where zinc titanates have found application due to their semi-conducting and dielectric properties. Mechanical activation by grinding is a well-known method and common part of the powder preparation route in the field of ceramics. The aim of this work is investigation of the influence of experimental conditions for mechanochemical synthesis of zinc orthotitanate. Starting powder mixtures of ZnO and TiO2, in the molar ratio that is in accordance with the stoichiometry of zinc titanate spinel type Zn2TiO4, were mechanically activated using a high-energy planetary ball mill. The process of mechanical activation was performed during different time intervals from 0 to 300 minutes. Microstructure characterization was determined by X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. Also, the specific surface area (SSA) of powders samples was measured by a nitrogen gas sorption analyzer using the BET method. The very first traces of zinc titanate are detectable after only 5 minutes of activation. The most interesting occurrence during the mechanical method of activation is that we have an almost pure phase after 90 minutes