Technical Specifications
- Material Name
- Product: Copper Nanopowder
- Chemical Formula: Cu
- CAS Number: 7440-50-8
- Purity
- Grade: 99.9% (metal basis)
- Impurities: ≤0.1% (trace metal oxides, other metals, or non-metallic elements)
- Particle Size
- Average Size: ~100 nm
- Particle Size Distribution: Typically confirmed via SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) or TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy)
- Morphology
- Shape: Often near-spherical or irregular, depending on the synthesis method
- Surface Area: Significantly higher than bulk copper due to the nanoscale particle size
- Crystal Structure
- Phase: Face-Centered Cubic (fcc)
- Potential Variations: Minor variations can occur based on production and post-processing conditions
- Physical and Chemical Properties
- Color: Reddish metallic powder
- Bulk Density: Lower than that of bulk copper, due to agglomeration at the nanoscale
- Melting Point: ~1,083 °C
- Boiling Point: ~2,567 °C
- Conductivity: High electrical and thermal conductivity (key property of copper)
- Packaging and Storage
- Standard Packaging: Typically sealed under inert gas (e.g., argon) or vacuum-sealed to minimize oxidation
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place; protect from air and moisture
- Shelf Life: Stable when sealed properly; oxidation may occur if exposed to air for long periods
- Safety and Handling
- Hazards:
- Finely divided copper can be combustible in air under certain conditions
- Inhalation of copper dust may irritate the respiratory tract
- Recommended Protective Measures:
- Use appropriate PPE (gloves, safety goggles, respirators)
- Handle in a controlled atmosphere (e.g., inert gas) to reduce oxidation and fire risks
- Hazards:
Applications
- Electronics and Conductive Inks
- Conductive Pastes: Copper nanopowder is used to formulate conductive inks and pastes for printed electronics
- Microelectronic Components: High conductivity makes nanoscale copper suitable for interconnects and other semiconductor applications
- Catalysis
- Chemical Synthesis: Copper nanoparticles are employed as catalysts in organic transformations (e.g., coupling reactions) due to their high surface area
- Environmental Catalysis: Potential use in reactions such as CO oxidation or wastewater treatment processes
- Sensors
- Gas Sensors: Nanoscale copper can enhance sensitivity and selectivity for gases like H₂S, CO, and others
- Electrochemical Sensors: Useful in biosensors for detecting analytes such as glucose
- Metallurgy and Alloying
- Sintering Aids: Copper nanoparticles help improve densification and mechanical properties in powder metallurgy
- Advanced Alloys: Improves conductivity and grain structure in various alloy formulations
- Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Materials
- Surface Coatings: Copper’s biocidal properties are enhanced at the nanoscale, making it suitable for medical devices or high-contact surfaces
- Filtration: Incorporated into water or air filters to inhibit microbial growth
- Thermal Management
- Heat Sinks: Copper nanoparticles can be used in composites for efficient heat dissipation
- Nanofluids: Suspensions containing copper nanoparticles improve heat transfer in coolant or heating systems
In Summary
Copper Nanopowder (Cu, 99.9%, 100 nm) is a high-purity, nanoscale form of copper known for its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. Its increased surface area and reactivity support a variety of applications, including printed electronics, catalysis, antimicrobial coatings, and alloying. Proper storage and handling under inert conditions are crucial to maintaining quality and ensuring safety.