Abstract: A process for the production of nanorods containing a rare earth metal is disclosed. The process comprises the steps of: (a) increasing the pH of an aqueous solution of the formula MX3, where M is a trivalent rare earth metal cation and X is a monovalent anion so as to produce a reaction product containing X anions in solution and a precipitate in the form of trivalent rare earth hydroxide nanoparticles of the formula M(OH)3, the nanoparticles having a hexagonal crystal structure; and, (b) ageing the nanoparticles of step (a) in the presence of the reaction product containing X anions in solution so as to cause rod-like anisotropic growth of the nanoparticles and form rare earth hydroxide nanorods.

Abstract: A process for producing plate-like alumina particles with a high aspect ratio is described. Nano-sized particles of an aluminium precursor compound, optionally formed by milling, are mixed with a sufficient volume fraction of a diluent and heat treated to form substantially discrete plate-like alpha alumina particles dispersed in the diluent. A mineraliser may be added to lower the effective melting point of the system. Substantially discrete plate-like particles may be formed without agitation when the heat treatment is conducted below the melting point of the diluent.

Abstract: A process for the production of nanorods containing a rare earth metal is disclosed. The process comprises the steps of: (a) increasing the pH of an aqueous solution of the formula MX3, where M is a trivalent rare earth metal cation and X is a monovalent anion so as to produce a reaction product containing X anions in solution and a precipitate in the form of trivalent rare earth hydroxide nanoparticles of the formula M(OH)3, the nanoparticles having a hexagonal crystal structure; and, (b) ageing the nanoparticles of step (a) in the presence of the reaction product containing X anions in solution so as to cause rod-like anisotropic growth of the nanoparticles and form rare earth hydroxide nanorods.