Synthesis, characterization and sensitivity tests of perovskite-type LaFeO3 nanoparticles in CO and propane atmospheres

• Published in: Ceramics international 2016-12, Vol.42 (16), p.18821-18827
• Main Authors: Gildo-Ortiz, L., Reyes-Gómez, J., Flores-Álvarez, J.M., Guillén-Bonilla, H., Olvera, M. de la L., Rodríguez Betancourtt, V.M., Verde-Gómez, Y., Guillén-Cervantes, A., Santoyo-Salazar, J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: A. Powders: Chemical preparation; B. Electron microscopy; D. Perovskites; E. Sensors
• ISSN: 0272-8842; 1873-3956
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ceramint.2016.09.027

Nanoparticles of perovskite-type LaFeO3 were synthesized by a simple process using stoichiometric lanthanum and iron nitrates, ethylenediamine, and distilled water as a solvent. Microwave radiation, with a power of ~350W, was applied for solvent evaporation. The obtained precursor powders were calcined at 200, 400, 500, 600 and 700°C in static air, and analyzed by X-ray diffraction and cyclic voltammetry. The samples showed catalytic activity and high physical and chemical stability. The calcined powders at 700°C were analyzed through scanning and transmission electron microscopy; agglomerated nanoparticles, forming a porous structure, were observed with an average size of 28nm. Their magnetic properties correspond to magnetization up to 0.83emu/g and coercivity of 182Oe. Pellets from these powders were prepared to measure the sensitivity to CO and propane gases, obtaining high performance at different gas concentrations and operation temperatures.