Effect of thermal oxidation treatment in air on the hydrolysis of AlN powder

The hydrolysis process was investigated for AlN powder oxidizing treatment at high temperature in air. Samples were characterized by chemical analysis, XRD, and IR analysis. It was found that the hydrolysis of AlN powder in aqueous suspension was strongly dependent on the oxidation temperature. The rate of hydrolysis decreased as the oxidation temperature increased. A significant improvement in water resistance was observed when the powders were treated in air above 800 °C. The A12C3 film formed by the oxidation treatment on the surface of AlN particles inhibits the reaction between AlN and water, thereby minimizing hydrolysis.