Preparation and characterization of Li2TiO3 pebbles by internal gelation sol–gel process

Lithium titanate, one of the promising candidates for tritium breeding in International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), was prepared in the form of pebbles by internal gelation technique of sol–gel process. High purity and nano-sized Li2TiO3 pebbles were obtained at 500 °C. Phase analysis, morphology, microstructure and crushing load strength of the pebbles were determined. The pebbles showed excellent sinterability and could be sintered to 90% TD at 1100 °C in 2 h. The process developed is short and simple as it combines the conversion and consolidation into a single step. Other attributes of the process include its ability to yield pebbles with desired characteristics for size, shape, density and porosity.