The present study gives an overview on the potential, possibilities and perspectives that the synthesis of functional materials, such as BaTiO₃, with microemulsions as the reaction medium offers. Well defined nanocrystalline particles in the form of powders for further ceramic processing, as well as stable colloidal dispersions for the preparation of coatings may be obtained. The paper describes the formation, phase behaviour and stabilization of microemulsions and related water/oil/surfactant systems that may be used as a nanoreactor during particle formation. The reaction principles of microemulsion mediated synthesis are outlined and some examples of structural aspects, revealing size effects in these systems are implemented using advanced characterization techniques, such as Raman spectroscopy. Finally, the preparation of mesoscopic layers, covering the thickness gap between thin film and thick film technology, is demonstrated.

Direct link: http://www.ijmr.de/MK101264