Sol-gel derived nanoparticles and processing routes to ceramics and composites

Highly crystalline nanoparticles hom Y-ZrO2 and FeOx have been prepared by microemulsion with subsequent solvothermal treatment and by precipitation processes. In both cases, aqueous based intermediates have been prepared which have been surface-modified by carboxylic acids and aminosilane. The surface modification prevents the formation of hard agglomerates of the nanoparticles (6-8 nm) completely and provides complete redispersibility. Low sintering compacts and nanocomposites have been prepared, and first results for using the FeOx nanoparticles for medical applications have been obtained.