Effect of vibro-milling time on phase formation and particle size of lead zirconate nanopowders

A perovskite phase of lead zirconate, PbZrO₃, nanopowder was synthesized by a solid-state reaction via a rapid vibro-milling technique. The effect of milling time on the phase formation and particle size of PbZrO₃ powder was investigated. Powder samples were characterized using TG-DTA, XRD, SEM and laser diffraction techniques. It was found that an average particle size of 50 nm was achieved at 25 h of vibro-milling after which a higher degree of particle agglomeration was observed upon continuation of milling to 35 h. In addition, by employing an appropriate choice of milling time, a narrow particle size distribution curve was also observed.