Solution phase synthesis of t-ZrO2nanoparticles in ZrO2–SiO2mixed oxide

A solution phase synthesis is used to prepare tetragonal zirconia nanoparticles. Ammonia solution and zirconia precursor solution were prepared separately and then mixed together to get colloidal hydroxide precipitate. The colloidal hydroxide was treated with silica sol and then the precipitate was separated and dried. The dried powder was then calcined at different temperatures for 2 and 6 h. The mean particle size of the powder calcined at 1000°C was found to be around 8–10 nm. The thermal analysis of dried powder indicates the formation of bulk tetragonal zirconia phase at 780°C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and infrared spectroscopic analyses confirm the presence of 100% tetragonal zirconia phase in the powder calcined at 1000°C. The addition of silica stabilised the tetragonal zirconia phase. It is advantageous to use this powder as catalyst or catalyst support that operates at high temperatures.