Grain size modulation on BaTiO3 nanoparticles synthesized at room temperature

A new method is developed to synthesize massive BaTiO3 nanoparticles directly at room temperature. With this method, the synthesis efficiency is improved and mass preparation can be realized. Also, the grain size of the as-prepared nanoparticles can be modulated from several nanometers to 40 nm through proper selection of the content of water and the alkanol chain length of the dispersant. It was found that smaller water content and a larger alkanol chain length of the dispersant will lead to a finer grain size. The mechanisms of the grain size modulation of BaTiO3 nanoparticles are also discussed.