Magnesium oxide nanoparticles prepared by ultrasound enhanced hydrolysis of Mg-alkoxides

Abstract Sonochemical synthesis followed by supercritical drying was used to prepare MgO nanoparticles from Mg(OCH3)2 and Mg(OC2H5)2. Their physicochemical properties were examined by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), simultaneous thermal analysis (DTA, TG, EGA), specific surface area measurement, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The dehydrated MgO oxides were free of –OCH3 groups. The highest values of specific surface area (1236 m2 g−1) have been obtained by hydrolysis of magnesium methoxide using toluene as solvent agent.