Synthesis and characterization of double phase metal nickelates/borates

Purpose: Purpose of this research is obtaining of metal nickelates and borates as double phase. These types of compounds display extraordinary structural diversity caused by boron and nickel which applicable in flame retardant, detergent, ceramic and such industries. Design/methodology/approach: Double phase metal nickelates and borates were weighed in an appropriate molar ratio and homogenized in an agate mortar. The mixture placed into a porcelain crucible to heat in conventional high temperature furnace. After the material was exposed to heat treatment at 900°C for 4 hours, and cooled down to room temperature with many grindings. Then, final products were analyzed by powder X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) using PANanalytical X’ Pert PRO Diffractometer (XRD) with Cu Kα (1.5406 Å, 45 kV and 30 mA) radiation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was achieved on a Perkin Elmer Spectrum 100 FTIR Spectrometer from 4000 to 650 cm-1. Scanning electron microscopy was achieved in SEM JEOL 6390-LV. Luminescence properties were performed by Andor Solis Sr 500i spectrophotometer. Conventional solid state syntheses were done in Protherm furnace. Findings: Ni3B2O6/YBO3 and MoNiO4/Ni3B2O6 compounds as double phase were identified by powder XRD patterns and phase analysis of these compounds were completed by High Score Plus program. Vibrations of B-O and Ni-O bonds of functional groups were determined in FTIR spectrum benefiting from literature. Research limitations/implications: Implication of the synthesis method has some disadvantages such as low homogeneity, non-uniform product etc. We tried to minimize these negative aspects in our research and succeeded. Practical implications: Double phase Ni3B2O6/YBO3 and MoNiO4/Ni3B2O6 compounds were synthesized by high temperature solid state synthesis route. Structural properties and phase composition analysis were realized using powder X-ray diffraction patterns. Originality/value: Value of the paper is first time conventional synthesis of double phase Ni3B2O6/YBO3 and MoNiO4/Ni3B2O6 compounds, characterization of the structures, and investigation of morphological and luminescent properties.