| abstract |
A novel method is provided for treating fumed metal oxides into spherical metal oxide masses. This technique may allow fumed metal oxide particles, such as fumed silica particles and fumed alumina particles, to be processed into spherical form, thereby improving operability while maintaining the desired surface area. The processing method comprises providing fumed metal oxide particles, mixing the particles with a liquid carrier to form a suspension solution, atomizing the particle suspension solution, and atomizing the droplets. Exposing to a temperature range sufficient to remove the liquid carrier from the droplets to form a metal oxide-containing mass. |