Technical Specifications
- Material Name
- Product: Chromium Nanopowder
- Chemical Formula: Cr
- CAS Number: 7440-47-3
- Purity
- Grade: 99.9% (metal basis)
- Impurities: ≤0.1% (trace metal oxides, other metals, or non-metallic elements)
- Particle Size
- Average Size: 35–45 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 synthesis method
- Surface Area: Higher than bulk chromium due to nanoscale dimensions
- Crystal Structure
- Phase: Body-Centered Cubic (bcc)
- Possible Variations: Minor deviations may occur based on production methods or post-processing
- Physical and Chemical Properties
- Color: Lustrous, silver-gray metallic powder
- Bulk Density: Typically lower than bulk chromium due to particle agglomeration at the nanoscale
- Melting Point: ~1,907 °C
- Boiling Point: ~2,671 °C
- Hardness: Chromium is known for its high hardness (8.5 on the Mohs scale)
- Corrosion Resistance: Chromium offers good corrosion resistance, which can be enhanced at the nanoscale
- Packaging and Storage
- Standard Packaging: Usually sealed in airtight containers under inert gas (argon) or vacuum-sealed to prevent oxidation
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place; protect from air, moisture, and ignition sources
- Shelf Life: Stable if stored properly; oxidation may occur if exposed to air for extended periods
- Safety and Handling
- Hazards:
- Fine chromium powder can be pyrophoric when exposed to air
- Inhalation of dust may cause respiratory irritation
- Recommended Protective Measures:
- Wear gloves, goggles, and appropriate respirators
- Handle in an inert or controlled atmosphere when feasible to minimize oxidation and fire risks
- Hazards:
Applications
- Metallurgical and Alloying
- Alloy Additions: Chromium is an essential alloying element in stainless steel and other specialty alloys to improve strength and corrosion resistance
- Powder Metallurgy: Nanoscale chromium can help refine grain structure and enhance mechanical properties in sintered parts
- Coatings and Surface Treatments
- Protective Coatings: Chromium-based coatings are prized for their hardness and wear resistance
- Thermal Spray and PVD: Chromium nanopowder can be used for advanced surface finishing methods to improve durability
- Catalysis
- Catalytic Processes: Chromium nanoparticles can serve as catalysts or catalyst supports in various chemical reactions, benefiting from high surface area
- Green Chemistry: Used in selective oxidation or reduction reactions, leveraging chromium’s oxidation states
- Electronics and Energy
- Thin Films: Chromium thin films are used in microelectronics for adhesion and conductive layers
- Battery Research: Investigations into nanoscale chromium for potential battery electrode or coating materials, though less common than other metals
- Ceramics and Composites
- Reinforcement Phase: Chromium nanopowder can be added to ceramic or polymer matrices to enhance hardness and wear resistance
- High-Temperature Components: Chromium’s high melting point makes it useful in composite materials for extreme environments
- Sensing and Measurement Devices
- Sensor Components: Potential use in sensors where chromium’s reactivity and electrical properties can be utilized, especially at the nanoscale
In Summary
Chromium Nanopowder (Cr, 99.9%, 35–45 nm) is a high-purity, nano-scale form of chromium known for its hardness, corrosion resistance, and high melting point. Its enhanced surface area and unique properties make it valuable for advanced alloys, coatings, catalysts, and other specialized applications. Proper handling and storage under controlled conditions are essential to maintain safety and preserve the nanopowder’s quality.