High Ferroelectricity: First Method for Production of Bulk SnTiO3

SnTiO3, a promising ferroelectric material, has historically been challenging to synthesize in bulk form. Existing methods like atomic layer or pulsed laser deposition are restricted to thin films, limiting their scalability and application. Additionally, traditional approaches requiring high temperatures lead to unwanted decomposition of tin(II) oxide. This new method overcomes these challenges, allowing for the cost-effective production of SnTiO3 in bulk, addressing the industry's demand for scalable, versatile materials with superior properties.

This invention provides a novel, scalable method for producing bulk SnTiO3 with high purity and unique crystalline structures. The process begins by reacting an alkali metal salt with titanium(IV) oxide at 550–650°C over a duration of 12 hours to create a layered alkali metal titanate. The precursor undergoes an ion exchange where tin(II) ions replace the alkali metal ions, forming a tin-exchanged titanate. Finally, the material is dehydrated and annealed below 350°C in an oxygen-free environment, preventing the decomposition of tin(II) oxide and enabling the formation of bulk SnTiO3. The method also facilitates the production of new crystalline structures, such as SnTi1-xMxO3. This approach ensures reproducibility, high material quality, and industrial scalability, addressing the limitations of traditional methods restricted to thin films.

• First bulk production method for SnTiO3.
• Scalable and suitable for industrial applications.
• Enables access to diverse SnTiO3-based materials.
• Produces high-purity materials validated by advanced characterization techniques.
• Unlocks potential for novel device applications due to unique structural and ferroelectric properties.

• Ferroelectric random-access memory (FeRAM) for data storage.
• Tunable capacitors for frequency control in electronics.
• Ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJ) for advanced computing architectures.
• Piezoelectric materials for ultrasound imaging.
• Electro-optical elements for high-speed data storage and transmission.

PCT (WO2019211372A1; 02.05.2019), active in EP, CN, JP, US

Diehl, L., Bette, S., Pielnhofer, F., Betzler, S., Moudrakovski, I., Ozin, G. A., ... & Lotsch, B. V. (2018). Structure-directing lone pairs: synthesis and structural characterization of SnTiO3. Chemistry of Materials, 30(24), 8932-8938.