Synthesis of complex metal oxides by novel routes

A variety of inorganic solids have been prepared in recent years by employing a wide range of conditions such as irradiation by laser or electron beams, use of high pressures, high vacuum, or hydrothermal conditions, rapid quenching of melts, melting in a watercooled copper container using rf power (skull melting) or in an arc, and so on. Several ways of accomplishing synthesis under mild conditions have been explored, and of special importance are the energy-saving routes involving low temperatures. In this article we shall present some of the important innovations in the synthesis of complex metal oxides, hoping that the article will also serve to illustrate how solid-state chemists pursue synthesis often employing seemingly simple techniques.