Synthesis and Functional Properties of Fine Neodymium Stannate Nd2Sn2O7 Powder

Abstract

The microstructure and thermal behavior of fine neodymium stannate Nd₂Sn₂O₇ powder, synthesized via the hydrothermal method, were studied in an air flow within the temperature range of 20–1000°C. For the first time, the electron work function from the surface was determined using Kelvin probe force microscopy; in an ambient air atmosphere without preliminary drying of the surrounding gaseous medium, it was found to be 4.24 ± 0.06 eV. Selected functional properties of the as-prepared Nd₂Sn₂O₇ powder were evaluated. In particular, its gas sensitivity was revealed at a detection temperature of 500°C and a relative humidity of 50% to 4–90 ppm of NO₂ present in air. A chemoresistive sensitivity to changes in air humidity was also observed. Electrochemical measurements of composite Nd₂Sn₂O₇/C/PVDF films deposited on nickel foam, performed using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge techniques, demonstrated their potential for use as electrodes in miniature energy storage devices.