Fabrication of Y2O3 microspheres by homogeneous precipitation method

Y2O3 microspheres were obtained via homogeneous precipitation method. Y2O3 microspheres with different sizes and morphologies were prepared by adjusting the reaction temperature, the concentration of ytterbium nitrate and urea ( H2NCONH2), and the amount and species of surfactants. The structure and morphology of the as-obtained Y2O3 were analysed by using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, and the results showed that the sample showed the optimal microscopy when it was prepared at 80 degrees C with the concentration of ytterbium nitrate, H2NCONH2 and betaine fixed at 0.01 M, 0.04 M and 4 g/l, respectively. Moreover, the as-prepared samples were uniform and smooth-surfaced.