Micrometer-sized (001) oriented BaTiO3 (BT) platelets with a perovskite structure, a stoichiometric composition and a high aspect ratio (10-20 mu m in diameter and 0.5-1 mu m in thickness) were synthesized through a modified two-step molten salt method by means of a typical topochemical microcrystal conversion. The results indicated that it is necessary to prevent Bi+ and Cl- or NO3- from coexisting under nonacidic or weakly acid environment. A less pollutive washing method and the corresponding principle were summarized in combination with the hydrolysis reaction process. The effect of synthesis temperatures on the formation of BT platelets was discussed. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.