Chemical synthesis of SrCO3 microcrystals via a homogeneous precipitation method

Abstract

Strontium carbonates (SrCO3) microcrystals have been synthesised through a modified homogeneous precipitation method, in which urea plays an important role. Compared to the direct precipitation approach, the present homogeneous precipitation method tends to provide an appropriate chemical microenvironment for the formation of rod-like SrCO3 microcrystals. Flower-like SrCO3 microcrystals can be formed by adding sodium dodecyl sulphate under the experimental condition. Powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry are used to characterise various properties of the as-prepared samples. This approach provides a facile route for the preparation of SrCO3 microcrystals, which may be applicable to the synthesis of other carbonates.