Synthesis and characterization of nanocrystalline ce_0.9gd_0.1o_1.95 by citrate-gel decomposition technique

Nanocrystalline gadolinia doped ceria powder (CGO) of composition Ce_0.9Gd_0.1O_1.95 was synthesized by citrate-gel decomposition technique and subsequently calcined at 700°C. The as-prepared and calcined powders were characterized by XRD and TEM analyses. The particle size (between 20 and 30 nm) was determined by TEM analysis. Uniaxially pressed samples were sintered at 1400° and 1500°C. A sintered density of nearly 99% of theoretical density was observed for samples sintered at 1500°C for 6 h. The electrical conductivity of the order of 0.029 and 0.0485 S.cm⁻¹ at 600° and 700°C, respectively was obtained for the sample sintered at 1500°C for 6 h. The sintered density and microstructure were also studied and reported.