Synthesis of spherical AlN particles by gas-reduction-nitridation method

Spherical AlN particles were synthesized by reduction-nitridation of spherical Al2O3 particles using NH3 and propane (C3H8) as reactant gases. Phase analysis of the reaction products was performed by XRD and the extent of nitridation was evaluated by weight loss measurement. Experimental results indicated that C3H8 addition was effective in accelerating the rate of nitride formation. SEM analysis revealed that the product powder maintained the particle morphology of the initial Al2O3 powder. Up to 94% of the starting material was converted to AlN at 1500°C within 0.5 h via a single-step synthesis process.