Synthesis of Nd:YAG nanopowder using the citrate method with microwave irradiation

Nd:YAG nanopowders were prepared using the Pechini process with microwave irradiation (MWs). A reference sample was also prepared using conventional heating. XRD pattern analysis showed that nanopowder obtained by means of conventional heating and calcination for 1 h at 900 ◦ C has a structure made up of the garnet phase together with the hexagonal phase that disappeared after two additional hours of thermal treatment. The MWs powder calcined for 1 h con- sists of the single garnet phase. SAXS data analysis indicated that nanoparticles are characterized by a sharp interface. TEM investigation showed crystalline particles with remarkable agglomeration in both samples, although a more homogeneous size of particles was evident in the MWs sample as compared to the reference sample. The rate, the calcination time and the quality of the powder obtained make the Pechini process with microwave irradiation an attractive alternative procedure to conventional YAG preparation methods.