Processing of Ta2O5 powders for electronic applications

The particle size, surface area, morphology, and purity of tantalum pentoxide are critical for some of its applications in the manufacture of several, electronic products. Although the purity of different grades of Ta2O5, such as standard technical grade, carbide grade, and optical grade, have been well documented, there is no report on the morphology and other surface characteristics of Ta2O5 powders. The objective of this paper is to review various methods and recent developments in the processing of tantalum oxide powders. The other objective of this paper is to report on the morphology, particle size, and surface area of tantalum oxide obtained from different methods of preparation. The work reported in this paper will be useful for researchers involved in the development of tantalum-related electronic materials.