Sol–gel processing and microstructure of TeO2 materials

Abstract The preparation of tellurium oxide has been investigated by the sol–gel process. Gels have been successfully obtained in the tellurium isopropoxide/isopropanol/acetic acid system. It has been shown by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy that the gelation is due to the in situ formation of water by an esterification reaction. The thermal evolution of the dry gels has been investigated by X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry coupled with thermogravimetry. Their morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Their crystallization behavior was relatively similar to that of glasses synthesized by melting and air quenching.