Abstract: | The thermal properties of a number of zirconia gels, prepared with various precipitants, have been studied by thermogravimetry, differential thermal analysis and evolved gas analysis. The results obtained show that ligands derived from the various precipitants are incorporated in these gels and strongly influence their high temperature behaviour. The observed properties are interpreted on the basis of a defect structure involving O2- vacancies generated through the removal of these ligands at higher temperatures. |