Engineering of LiTaO3 Nanoparticles by Flame Spray Pyrolysis: Understanding In Situ Li-Incorporation into the Ta2O5 Lattice

Lithium tantalate (LiTaO3) perovskite finds wide use in pyroelectric detectors, optical waveguides and piezoelectric transducers, stemming from its good mechanical and chemical stability and optical transparency. Herein, we present a method for synthesis of LiTaO3 nanoparticles using a scalable Flame Spray Pyrolysis (FSP) technology, that allows the formation of LiTaO3 nanomaterials in a single step. Raman, XRD and TEM studies allow for comprehension of the formation mechanism of the LiTaO3 nanophases, with particular emphasis on the penetration of Li atoms into the Ta-oxide lattice. We show that, control of the High-Temperature Particle Residence Time (HTPRT) in the FSP flame, is the key-parameter that allows successful penetration of the -otherwise amorphous- Li phase into the Ta2O5 nanophase. In this way, via control of the HTPRT in the FSP process, we synthesized a series of nanostructured LiTaO3 particles of varying phase composition from {amorphous Li/Ta2O5/LiTaO3} to {pure LiTaO3, 15–25 nm}. Finally, the photophysical activity of the FSP-made LiTaO3 was validated for photocatalytic H2 production from H2O. These data are discussed in conjunction with the role of the phase composition of the LiTaO3 nanoparticles. More generally, the present work allows a better understanding of the mechanism of ABO3 perovskite formation that requires the incorporation of two cations, A and B, into the nanolattice.