Dependence of precursor characteristics on low temperature densification of sol–gel aluminium titanate

Aluminium titanate precursor gels have been prepared by the sol–gel route using monohydroxy aluminium oxide (boehmite) sol and titanium isopropoxide. The influence of calcination temperature of the precursors on phase formation, densification and microstructure development in sol–gel aluminium titanate have been studied. Studies of pre-calcined precursor gels at 600, 800, 1000 and 1200°C show a significant increase in density on raising the calcination temperature from 600 to 1000°C. The treatment at 1000°C favours a phase composition most conducive to low temperature densification of aluminium titanate at 1350°C.