Technical Specifications
- Material Name
- Product: Cobalt Nanopowder
- Chemical Formula: Co
- CAS Number: 7440-48-4
- Purity
- Grade: 99.9% (metal basis)
- Impurities: ≤0.1% (trace metal oxides, other metallic or non-metallic elements)
- Particle Size
- Average Size: ~800 nm (micron-submicron range)
- Particle Size Distribution: Typically confirmed by techniques such as SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) or TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy)
- Morphology
- Shape: Often near-spherical or irregular, depending on synthesis method.
- Surface Area: Dependent on exact particle morphology, but typically higher than bulk cobalt due to small particle size.
- Crystal Structure
- Phases: Generally hexagonal close-packed (hcp) or face-centered cubic (fcc), with possible variations or mixtures depending on synthesis and processing conditions.
- Physical and Chemical Properties
- Color: Lustrous silvery-gray metal powder
- Bulk Density: Varies with agglomeration (nanopowder often has a much lower apparent density than bulk cobalt)
- Melting Point: ~1,495 °C
- Boiling Point: ~2,927 °C
- Magnetic Properties: Cobalt is ferromagnetic; nanoscale particles can exhibit unique magnetic behavior (e.g., superparamagnetism for very small particle sizes).
- Packaging and Storage
- Standard Packaging: Typically 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 potential ignition sources.
- Shelf Life: Under proper storage conditions, can remain stable for extended periods, but surface oxidation might occur over time.
- Safety and Handling
- Hazards:
- May be flammable or pyrophoric in contact with air, especially when finely divided.
- Inhalation of cobalt dust can be harmful; may cause respiratory irritation or sensitization.
- Recommended Protective Measures:
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): gloves, goggles, and suitable respirators.
- Handle under inert atmosphere if possible to minimize oxidation or self-heating risks.
- Hazards:
Applications
- Magnetic Materials
- Magnets and Magnetic Storage: Cobalt’s ferromagnetic properties make it useful in high-performance permanent magnets or magnetic recording media.
- Magneto-Optical Applications: In some research areas, cobalt nanoparticles are being studied for advanced data storage and spintronic devices.
- Catalysts and Chemical Reactions
- Hydrodesulfurization and Hydrogenation: Cobalt nanoparticles can serve as effective catalysts in refining processes or in synthesis of specialty chemicals.
- Fischer-Tropsch Process: Cobalt-based catalysts are widely used to convert syngas (CO/H₂) into liquid hydrocarbons.
- Battery and Energy Storage
- Battery Electrodes: Cobalt is a key component in many rechargeable battery chemistries (e.g., Li-ion). Nanopowders can enhance electrode performance due to high surface area and improved electron/ion transport.
- Fuel Cells: Cobalt nanostructures can be explored as electrocatalysts or catalyst supports in certain fuel cell designs.
- Sensors and Electronics
- Gas Sensors: The reactivity and high surface area of cobalt nanoparticles can improve sensitivity and selectivity in gas sensing devices.
- Magnetoresistive Devices: Nanoscale cobalt can be incorporated into sensor systems that exploit changes in electrical resistance under magnetic fields.
- Alloying and Metallurgical Applications
- Superalloys: Cobalt is an essential element in high-temperature superalloys for aerospace and industrial gas turbine components. Adding cobalt nanostructures can tailor microstructure and mechanical properties.
- Coatings and Surface Treatments: Cobalt nanopowder can be used to create thin films or composite coatings with enhanced hardness, corrosion resistance, or magnetic properties.
- Biomedical Research (Limited/Exploratory)
- Hyperthermia Treatment: Magnetic nanoparticles, including cobalt-based, are investigated for targeted hyperthermia in cancer therapy.
- Drug Delivery (Experimental): Though less common than iron oxide, cobalt nanoparticles are studied for potential drug delivery platforms, with caution regarding biocompatibility.
In Summary
Cobalt Nanopowder (Co, 99.9%, 800 nm) is a high-purity, submicron form of cobalt with potential use in advanced magnetic materials, catalysis, battery electrodes, sensors, and more. Proper handling and storage are crucial to maintain its properties and ensure safety.