Germanium Nanopowder ( Ge, 99.99%, 35nm)

Technical Specifications

1. Material Name
   • Product: Germanium Nanopowder
   • Chemical Formula: Ge
   • CAS Number: 7440-56-4
2. Purity
   • Grade: 99.99% (metal basis)
   • Impurities: ≤0.01% (trace metal oxides, other metallic or non-metallic elements)
3. Particle Size
   • Average Size: ~35 nm
   • Particle Size Distribution: Typically confirmed via SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) or TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy)
4. Morphology
   • Shape: Often near-spherical or irregular, depending on synthesis method
   • Surface Area: Significantly higher than bulk germanium due to nanoscale dimensions
5. Crystal Structure
   • Phase: Diamond cubic structure (similar to silicon)
   • Variations: Minor variations in crystallinity may occur depending on processing conditions
6. Physical and Chemical Properties
   • Color: Grayish-black to metallic gray powder
   • Density (Bulk): ~5.32 g/cm³
   • Melting Point: ~938 °C
   • Boiling Point: ~2,820 °C
   • Semiconducting Properties: Bandgap ~0.67 eV (bulk value; may differ slightly at the nanoscale)
7. Packaging and Storage
   • Standard Packaging: Typically sealed under inert gas (e.g., argon) or vacuum to prevent oxidation or contamination
   • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry environment; protect from air and moisture to minimize surface oxidation
   • Shelf Life: Stable under proper storage; surface oxidation may occur if exposed to ambient conditions for extended periods
8. Safety and Handling
   • Hazards:
     • Finely divided germanium may pose inhalation hazards; dust could irritate the respiratory system
     • Generally not considered highly flammable, but fine powders can present dust explosion risks under certain conditions
   • Recommended Protective Measures:
     • Wear suitable PPE (gloves, goggles, respirator)
     • Handle under inert or controlled conditions to prevent unwanted reactions

Applications

1. Semiconductor and Electronics
   • Advanced Semiconductor Devices: Nanoscale germanium is explored for high-speed transistors, MOSFETs, and other semiconductor components
   • Solar Cells: Germanium can be used as a substrate or in multi-junction solar cells to enhance efficiency
2. Optoelectronics and Photonics
   • Infrared (IR) Optics: Germanium is transparent in the IR range and can be used for optical components, lenses, and sensors
   • Photodetectors: Germanium-based photodetectors can operate in near-IR wavelengths, suitable for telecommunications
3. Energy Storage
   • Battery Anodes: Germanium nanostructures are investigated as high-capacity anode materials for lithium-ion and other rechargeable batteries
4. Catalysis
   • Chemical Reactions: Nanostructured germanium shows potential as a catalyst or catalyst support in select organic and electrochemical reactions
5. Alloying and Doping
   • Metallurgical Additives: Used to modify properties of metal alloys (e.g., to enhance hardness or modify electrical characteristics)
   • Fiber Optics: Germanium is sometimes doped into silica fiber to adjust refractive index and transmission properties
6. Sensors
   • Chemical and Gas Sensors: Nanoscale germanium can exhibit sensitivity to certain gases or chemicals, enabling high-performance sensor applications
   • Biosensors: Germanium interfaces can be functionalized for biological sensing applications

In Summary

Germanium Nanopowder (Ge, 99.99%, 35 nm) is a high-purity, nanoscale form of germanium recognized for its semiconducting properties, infrared transparency, and potential catalytic behavior. Its elevated surface area and quantum-scale effects open opportunities in electronics, optoelectronics, energy storage, and sensor technologies. Maintaining an inert storage environment and using appropriate safety measures are crucial to preserve its properties and ensure safe handling.