Technical Specifications
1. General Information
- Product Name: Boron Nanopowder
- Chemical Symbol: B
- Purity: ≥ 90%
- Particle Size: 1-2 µm (1000-2000 nm)
- Form: Fine powder
- Color: Dark gray to black
2. Chemical Composition
- Elemental Composition: Boron (B) ≥ 90%
- Impurities: Trace amounts of oxygen, carbon, and other elements depending on the synthesis method
- Moisture Content: ≤ 1%
3. Physical Properties
- Particle Size Distribution: 1-2 µm with a narrow size distribution
- Surface Area: 1-10 m²/g (varies based on processing)
- Density:
- Bulk Density: 2.34 g/cm³
- Tap Density: 1.80 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 2,076°C
- Boiling Point: 4,000°C
- Thermal Stability: High thermal stability up to its melting point
- Crystalline Structure: Amorphous or crystalline depending on synthesis method
4. Morphological Characteristics
- Shape: Irregular or spherical particles
- Agglomeration: Minimal to moderate; may require dispersants for uniform distribution in composites
- Surface Morphology: Smooth to slightly rough surfaces, potentially with functional groups depending on processing
5. Handling and Storage
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from oxidizing agents and moisture
- Packaging: Typically available in sealed, moisture-resistant containers to prevent contamination and moisture absorption
- Safety Precautions:
- Avoid inhalation of dust particles; use appropriate respiratory protection
- Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing during handling
- Handle in a well-ventilated area or under an inert atmosphere if necessary
- Prevent exposure to open flames or high temperatures due to high reactivity
6. Regulatory Compliance
- Standards: Complies with relevant material safety standards such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)
- Certifications: May vary based on manufacturer; ensure compliance with local and international regulations as applicable
7. Synthesis Methods
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Produces high-purity nanoparticles with controlled size and morphology
- Ball Milling: Mechanical process that grinds bulk boron into nanopowder, may introduce defects or impurities
- Sol-Gel Processes: Involves transitioning a solution into a solid gel phase, allowing for fine control over particle size and distribution
8. Functionalization
- Surface Treatments: Can be functionalized with various chemical groups to enhance compatibility with different matrices or to impart specific properties such as hydrophobicity, electrical conductivity, or catalytic activity
- Dispersants: May require the addition of dispersing agents to prevent agglomeration in composite materials
Applications
1. Aerospace and Defense
- Rocket Propellants: Utilized as a high-energy fuel additive in solid rocket propellants to enhance performance and increase specific impulse.
- Thermal Protection Systems: Employed in heat shields and ablative materials due to its exceptional thermal stability and resistance to high temperatures.
- Armor Materials: Incorporated into advanced armor systems for enhanced protection against ballistic threats and projectiles.
2. Energy Storage and Conversion
- Battery Materials: Used in advanced battery technologies, including lithium-ion and boron-based batteries, to improve energy density, cycle life, and overall performance.
- Fuel Cells: Acts as a catalyst support or active material in certain types of fuel cells, enhancing efficiency and durability.
3. Composite Materials
- Reinforcement Agent: Incorporated into polymer, metal, and ceramic matrices to enhance mechanical properties such as strength, hardness, wear resistance, and thermal stability.
- Lightweight Structures: Used in the fabrication of lightweight and strong composite materials for automotive, aerospace, and sporting goods applications.
4. Electronics and Semiconductors
- Semiconductor Manufacturing: Serves as a dopant or additive in the production of semiconductor devices, improving electrical properties and device performance.
- Conductive Inks: Utilized in the formulation of conductive inks for printed electronics, flexible circuits, and wearable devices.
5. Chemical Industry
- Catalysts: Acts as a catalyst or catalyst support in various chemical reactions, including hydrogenation, polymerization, and oxidation processes.
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Employed in the deposition of boron-containing films and coatings for protective and functional purposes.
6. Biomedical Applications
- Bioactive Coatings: Used in medical implants and devices to improve biocompatibility, promote bone growth, and prevent bacterial infections.
- Drug Delivery Systems: Explored as a component in nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for targeted therapy and controlled release of pharmaceuticals.
7. Nanotechnology and Research
- Nanocomposites: Fundamental component in the development of nanocomposite materials with tailored properties for specific applications, such as enhanced mechanical strength or electrical conductivity.
- Research and Development: Extensively used in academic and industrial research to study the properties and potential applications of boron at the nanoscale, including its electronic, thermal, and mechanical behaviors.
8. Environmental Applications
- Water Treatment: Investigated for use in adsorption processes to remove contaminants, heavy metals, and pollutants from water, improving water quality.
- Pollution Control: Utilized in materials designed to capture or neutralize harmful substances in industrial emissions, contributing to cleaner air and reduced environmental impact.
9. Defense and Military
- Explosives and Pyrotechnics: Used in the formulation of high-energy explosives and pyrotechnic devices, enhancing their performance and stability.
- Sensors and Detection Systems: Incorporated into advanced sensor technologies for the detection of chemical, biological, and radiological agents.
10. Industrial Manufacturing
- Abrasives: Employed in abrasive materials for grinding, cutting, and polishing applications due to its hardness and durability.
- Additive Manufacturing: Utilized in 3D printing and additive manufacturing processes to create complex components with enhanced material properties.