Unique LaTaO[subscript 4] Polymorph for Multiple Energy Applications
Rare-earth niobate and tantalate (RE-Nb/Ta) materials are of considerable interest in environmental and energy-related applications that include phosphors for solid-state lighting, photocatalysts for both contaminant degeneration and H{sub 2} generation, chemically robust hosts for nuclear materials and wastes, and ion conductors for lithium batteries or solid-oxide fuel cells. However, the chemically inert nature limits the synthetic routes available to obtain these materials, which in turn hampers the discovery and development of new RE-Nb/Ta phases. Of the simple orthotantalate, LaTaO{sub 4}, there were three polymorphs known prior. With this paper, we present the structural characterization (from high-resolution X-ray powder diffraction data collected at the APS 11-BM line) of a fourth polymorph. It is obtained only from dehydration of La{sub 2}Ta{sub 2}O{sub 7}(OH){sub 2}, which is in turn synthesized hydrothermally. The structure of the new LaTaO{sub 4} polymorph is distinctive from the others in the arrangement of the alternating La-O polyhedra layers and TaO{sub 6} octahedra layers. Luminescence measurements (Eu-doped) and photocatalysis studies of the new LaTaO{sub 4} polymorph, and comparison to the performance of a previously described LaTaO{sub 4} polymorph reveals enhanced performance of the new polymorph in both applications. This study illustrates the relevance of form-function relationships in solid-state materials, as well as the important role of synthesis in the development of advanced functional materials.
- Research Organization:
- Argonne National Lab. (ANL), Argonne, IL (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- OSTI ID:
- 1005931
- Journal Information:
- Chem. Mater., Vol. 21, Issue (19) ; 10, 2009; ISSN 0897-4756
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- ENGLISH
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