Spherical particles of lead titanate, PbTiO3, (PT) were prepared
from partially hydrolyzed alkoxide solutions modified with benzoic acid.
Modified and aged alkoxide solutions were added dropwise to isopropyl
alcohol, forming particles (0.2 to 1.0 μm in diameter). FTIR spectroscopy
results demonstrate chelation of the PT alkoxide which prevented the
formation of an extended gel network. Diffuse reflectance FTIR (DRIFT)
spectra indicate the benzoate ligands are present until 450°C; TGA results
show significant weight loss at 450°C. PT particles crystallize into the
perovskite phase at =450°C, as determined by DTA and XRD. The relatively low
crystallization temperature may be due to the effect of benzoate ligands on
amorphous structure and presence of internal surfaces.