Gel–sol synthesis and aging effect on highly crystalline anatase nanopowder

Highly crystalline TiO2 anatase nanoparticles were synthesized via gel–sol method by using titanium isopropoxide and triethanolamine. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis and nitrogen gas absorption methods. The particle size ranged from 7 to 24 nm having specific surface area of 64 to 220 m2/g. Selective Ti(OH)4 gel specifications and hydrothermal test conditions resulted in thermodynamically-stable phase-formation. Aging at 130°C for 4 h resulted in particle size of 7 nm; while at 130 and 160°C for 12 h resulted in 12 and 21 nm, respectively.