Method of making oxide particles

Abstract

The present invention provides a process for producing particles, such as oxide nanoparticles, in a substantially water-free environment. The process involves mixing at least one metal compound of the formula MX(m−n) with at least one surfactant and at least one solvent, wherein M is an electropositive element of Groups 1–15; each X is independently selected from the group consisting of O1/2, F, Cl, Br, I, OR, O2CR, NR2, and R; each R is independently a hydrocarbyl group; n is equal to ½ the oxidation state of the metal M in the product particle; and m is equal to the oxidation state of the element M. The components are typically combined to form a mixture which is thermally treated for a time period sufficient to convert the metal compound into particles of the corresponding oxide, having sizes in a range between about 0.5 nanometer and about 1000 nanometers. Examples of metal compounds employed in this process include materials such as Si(OR)4, Ti(OR)4 (where R is as described above), (Zr(OiPr)2)(OAc)2, and the like. Illustrative oxide materials which can be prepared by this process include TiO2, ZrO2, SiO2, and B2O3.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.