Characterization and Formation of Yttrium Disilicate Nanocrystalline Powders by EDTA–Citric Acid Complexing Process

A new route for the synthesis of yttrium disilicate (mainly α‐Y₂Si₂O₇) powders was reported as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)–citric acid (CA) complexing process. The thermal decomposition, phase composition, and microstructure of sample were characterized by thermogravimetry–differential thermal analyses, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and field emission scanning microscopy, respectively. The EDTA–CA complexation mechanism was further discussed, and the selected condition to get nanocrystalline Y₂Si₂O₇ powders was the precursor with pH 9.38 and heat treatment at around 1050°C. The prepared powders were well crystallized with average crystalline size ca. 50 nm.