Synthesis of magnesium dititanate by citrate gel route and its characterisation

Submicron size powder of magnesium dititanate (MgTi2O5) has been synthesise d by citrate gel route. The process involves complexing Ti4+ and Mg2+ with citric acid separately. The complexed solutions were mixed in the molar rat io 2:1. Evaporation of excess water resulted in formation of viscous gel. T he gel on subsequent drying and calcination at 500 degrees C for 2 h gives single phase MgTi2O5. The calcined powder shows specific surface area 46 m( 2)/g. Scanning Electron micrograph of the powder shows agglomerated submicr on size powder. The powder when palletised and sintered at 1350 degrees C f or 2 h achieved more than 96% of theoretical density. (C) 1999 Elsevier Sci ence Limited and Techna S.r.l. All rights reserved.