Ceramics-Silikáty 51 (1) 9-14 (2007)

Preparation and characterization of analcime powders by X-ray and SEM analyses

M. Kohoutková, A. Kloužková, J. Maixner

Analcime (NaAlSi₂O₆ •H₂O) powders having controlled particle size distribution were designed [1, 2] as a potential precursor for the fabrication of leucite (KAlSi₂O₆) dental ceramics retaining high fracture toughness and the thermal expansion coefficient adjusted those of metals. The purpose of this study is to investigate the synthesis of analcime and the effect of principal factors influencing its crystallisation. Analcime powders were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis in a Teflon-lined stainless steel autoclave. The role of the composition of the reaction mixture (raw materials, OH^- concentration, and water content), reaction temperature and time were studied. Prepared analcime was in form of homogenous powders with the uniform particle size at intervals 1-5 µm depending on process parameters.

Keywords: Analcime, Hydrothermal synthesis, X-ray diffraction