Dependence of the Lattice Parameter of Magnesium Oxide on Crystallite Size

Lattice parameters were measured on MgO specimens prepared in air between 450° and 1200°C. The lattice parameter, a, decreases with increase in preparation temperature, Tp, and with increase in crystallite size. A hydroxide layer is present on the MgO particles. If MgO is prepared in vacuum, a increases as Tp increases and as crystallite size, D, increases. It is concluded that a dilatant volume stress is imposed by the hydroxide layer. It is also shown that the oxide surface reactivity toward water is linked to the deviation from perfect order ensuing from low preparation temperatures.