Journal of Aerosol Science, Vol.32, No.5, 615-630, 2001
Mobility size development and the crystallization path during aerosol decomposition synthesis of TiO2 particles
Size and morphology transformation as well as the crystallization path of monodisperse titanium dioxide particles were studied in aerosol flow reactor. Solid, hydrated titanium oxide particles were prepared from titanium alkoxide by a droplet hydrolysis acid a subsequent size classification. The particles were carried to a reactor in air at temperature range of 20-1500 degreesC. The inlet particle size of 100 and 200 nm gradually decreased 40% with increasing temperature as investigated by a tandem differential mobility analyzer (TDMA) system. The decrease was due to decomposition of the hydrated Ti-O particles. densification of the forming TiO2 particles, and a phase change from anatase to rutile. Above 1000 degreesC the mobility size increased due to crystal-habit formation that created faceted, elongated particles and consequently an increased dynamic shape factor. Microstructure investigations with a transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed that nanocrystalline anatase particles were present at 600 degreesC and transformed to rutile up to 1100 degreesC with simultaneous crystallite growth. Single-crystal rutile particles were observed at temperatures with the increased mobility diameters.