Vapor phase flame process for making ceramic particles using a corona discharge electric field
US5861132A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 4, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jan 19, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 4, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC01P2006/12
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A gas phase process for the production of titanium dioxide powders having well-controlled crystalline and surface area characteristics is disclosed. In this process, which is preferably carried out in a laminar diffusion flame reactor, vapor phase TiCl.sub.4 and oxygen are mixed in a reaction area which is heated externally. The titanium dioxide powder formed is then collected. It is preferred that the heat source used be a hydrocarbon fueled (e.g., methane) flame. Optionally, a vapor phase dopant (such as SiCl.sub.4) may be added to the reaction mixture to desirably affect the physical properties of the titanium dioxide produced. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a corona electric field is positioned across the area where the combustion reaction takes place (i.e., the reaction area). High anatase, high surface area titanium dioxide powders made by this process are excellent photocatalysts. The products of this process and the use of those products as photocatalysts are also disclosed. This process is also useful for producing other ceramic powders (such as silicon dioxide and tin oxide), as well as pure metallic or alloy powders.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.