The characterisation of mcallisterite synthesised from bischofite via the hydrothermal method

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of reaction time and temperature on the hydrothermal synthesis and physical properties of mcallisterite [Mg-2(B6O7(OH)(6))(2)center dot 9(H2O)], a type of a magnesium borate. Different parameters that affect the final products were determined by various techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and Raman spectra, Differential Thermal Analysis and Thermal Gravimetry (DTA/TG). The surface morphology of synthesized mcallisterite was investigated by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). B2O3 (boron oxide) content was determined through a gravimetric method of titration. Optical absorption characteristics of mcallisterite were investigated by UV-vis spectrometer and Picoammeter Voltage Source was used to measure electrical properties.