When preparing Zirconia from zirconyl chloride and precipitating using ammonium hydroxide, ethanol wash is essential to remove chemisorped water on the surface of precipitates. Is there an alternative to using ethanol (or any organic solvent) for removal of water from the surface.

The main reason is presence of lingering -OH groups reduces sinterability of nanoparticles and causes grain growth but ethanol wash remains a limiting factor preventing scaling up of process.

Suggestions for any surfactant that could help with the process is also welcome.

Thanks in advance.