Low‐Temperature Synthesis Route to MgNb 2 O 6

A solution‐derived precursor may be calcined at temperatures >500°C to yield MgNb 2 O 6 . Calcining temperatures 800°C result in the familiar, cation‐ordered columbite structure type. Calcining temperatures <800°C result in a previously unobserved, cation‐disordered α‐PbO 2 structure type. The low‐temperature form of MgNb 2 O 6 is a more reactive material than is obtained by conventional solid‐state reaction as evidenced by its small particle size and its ability to react with PbO to form lead magnesium niobate at lower temperatures.