On line characterization of zirconia powders synthesized by atomization

A technique based on a spray pyrolysis technique for producing and characterizing fine ceramic powders has been developed. This promising process consists in nebulizing a precursor solution, after the aerosol generation the particles are heated. One of the most interesting applications of this method is in the possibility of control of the structure and morphology of the final product. In situ X-ray absorption analysis has given information related to the particle formation. We have shown that high purity, chemical homogeneity, particle size and sphericity which are requested for improving ceramic processing, are related to the structural information during the synthesis from the liquid phase. The problem of the formation of porous particles which can lead to difficulties in densifying the powders is investigated examining the effect of the synthesis parameters on the particle formation.