Received October 14, 2005

Abstract:

Herein we demonstrate a unique processing technique for engineering multicomponent ceramic nanopowders with precise morphologies by "nanoblast" calcination/deagglomeration. Multiple "nanoexplosions" of C₃H₆N₆O₆ nanoparticles embedded in preliminary engineered nanoreactors break apart the agglomerates because of the highly energetic impacts of the blast waves. Also, the solid-solubility of one component into the other is enhanced by the extremely high local temperature generated during the nanoexplosions. We applied this technique to produce nanosized agglomerate-free ceria-gadolinia solid solution powder with an average aggregate size of 42 nm. The described method opens the door to the synthesis of a wide range of multimetal oxide ceramic and metal-ceramic composite nanopowders, with precise stoichiometries and uniform morphologies.

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