Solid state NMR characterization of NaNbO3 and LiNbO3 nanoparticles obtained by microwave-assisted combustion

Nanoparticles of LiNbO3 and NaNbO3 were obtained for the first time by microwave-assisted combustion. Preliminary experiments reveal that the synthetic conditions influence their microstructure and optoelectronic features. Therefore, there is a need for performing the structural characterization of these materials, obtained by this new route. In the case of NaNbO3, there are two polimorphs which are stable at room temperature, space groups P21ma and Pbma. Powder x-Ray diffraction experiments were not capable to identify the crystalline phases present in the nanoparticles. Therefore, we have performed a detailed structural characterization of the nanoparticles by 1D and 2D solid state 23Na and 93Nb Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) techniques. 23Na results reveal the presence of both phases, Pbma and P21ma, for samples prepared using NaNO3 precursor in a 1:1 Na:Nb ratio or NaCl in excess. On the other hand, the P21ma polymorph could be isolated in the synthesis using NaCl salt in 1:1 Na:Nb ratio. On the other hand, LiNbO3 nanoparticles display the usual rhombohedral structure R3c. 7Li MAS NMR results reveal the presence of two types of Li species, with distinct dynamics. Highly mobile Li+ ions are found at the surface of the nanoparticles, while bulk Li+ show restricted movement. Finally, as a proof of principle, the photocatalytic activity of these niobates was tested for the degradation of methylene blue dye, a common organic-water contaminant.