Technical Specifications
- Material Name
- Product: Nickel Nanopowder
- Chemical Formula: Ni
- CAS Number: 7440-02-0
- Purity
- Grade: 99.9% (metal basis)
- Impurities: ≤0.1% (trace amounts of oxides or other metallic/non-metallic elements)
- Particle Size
- Average Size: ~70 nm
- Particle Size Distribution: Typically verified through SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) or TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy)
- Morphology
- Shape: Often near-spherical or irregular, depending on synthesis
- Surface Area: Higher than bulk nickel due to nanoscale particle size
- Crystal Structure
- Phase: Face-Centered Cubic (fcc)
- Potential Variations: Minor structural changes may arise from manufacturing or post-processing
- Physical and Chemical Properties
- Color: Silvery, metallic-gray powder
- Bulk Density: Lower than bulk nickel due to agglomeration at the nanoscale
- Melting Point: ~1,455 °C
- Boiling Point: ~2,913 °C
- Magnetic Properties: Nickel is ferromagnetic; nanoscale particles may exhibit distinct magnetic behaviors
- Packaging and Storage
- Standard Packaging: Typically sealed under inert gas (argon) or vacuum to minimize oxidation
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry area; protect from air, moisture, and oxidizing agents
- Shelf Life: Stable if sealed properly; surface oxidation can occur over time if exposed to air
- Safety and Handling
- Hazards:
- Finely divided nickel powder can be combustible if exposed to high temperatures or strong oxidizers
- Nickel dust may cause skin or respiratory irritation
- Recommended Protective Measures:
- Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, respirators)
- Handle under inert or controlled conditions to reduce oxidation and fire risks
- Hazards:
Applications
- Catalysis
- Chemical Synthesis: Nickel nanoparticles are effective catalysts for hydrogenation and reforming reactions
- Electrochemical Processes: May serve as catalysts in fuel cells or electrolyzers for improved efficiency
- Magnetic Materials
- Magnetorheological Fluids: Nickel nanoparticles can be dispersed in fluids that alter viscosity in a magnetic field
- Magnetic Storage and Sensing: Explored for use in data storage media and magnetic sensor applications
- Electronics and Conductive Inks
- Conductive Pastes: Nickel nanopowder is utilized in inks or coatings for printed electronics
- EMI Shielding: Ferromagnetic characteristics aid in shielding sensitive electronics from electromagnetic interference
- Metallurgy and Alloying
- Powder Metallurgy: Nanoscale nickel particles enhance sintering and mechanical properties in nickel-based alloys
- Superalloys: Nickel is key for high-temperature, corrosion-resistant alloys used in aerospace and other demanding sectors
- Battery and Energy Storage
- Battery Electrodes: Nickel and nickel-containing composites are used in rechargeable batteries (e.g., NiMH, Li-ion cathodes)
- Supercapacitors: Nickel and nickel oxide nanoparticles can improve electrode conductivity and energy density
- Biomedical Research (Exploratory)
- Drug Delivery and Hyperthermia: Although iron oxide is more common for biocompatibility, nickel’s magnetic properties make it a theoretical candidate for targeted therapies
- Biosensors: Nickel-based electrodes may be functionalized for electrochemical detection of biomolecules
In Summary
Nickel Nanopowder (Ni, 99.9%, 70 nm) is a high-purity, nanoscale form of nickel offering notable magnetic and catalytic characteristics. Its enhanced surface area and reactivity support a range of applications—from advanced catalysis and electronics to EMI shielding and alloy development. Proper inert-atmosphere storage and careful handling are essential to preserve quality and ensure user safety.