Silicon Nanopowder (Si, 99%, 100nm)

Technical Specifications

1. Material Name
   • Product: Silicon Nanopowder
   • Chemical Formula: Si
   • CAS Number: 7440-21-3
2. Purity
   • Grade: 99% (metal basis)
   • Impurities: ≤1% (trace levels of oxides, metals, or other non-metallic elements)
3. Particle Size
   • Average Size: ~100 nm
   • Particle Size Distribution: Typically verified using SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) or TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy)
4. Morphology
   • Shape: Near-spherical or irregular, depending on synthesis method
   • Surface Area: High surface area compared to bulk silicon, though lower than smaller nanoparticles (<50 nm)
5. Crystal Structure
   • Phase: Cubic diamond structure (crystalline silicon)
   • Variations: Amorphous content may be present based on processing conditions
6. Physical and Chemical Properties
   • Color: Black or dark gray powder
   • Bulk Density: Lower than bulk silicon due to particle agglomeration
   • Melting Point: ~1,414 °C
   • Boiling Point: ~3,265 °C
   • Electrical Properties: Intrinsic semiconductor with a bandgap of ~1.12 eV; nanoscale effects may slightly modify electrical properties
7. Packaging and Storage
   • Standard Packaging: Sealed in airtight containers under inert gas (e.g., argon) or vacuum-sealed to prevent oxidation
   • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place; protect from air and moisture to avoid surface oxidation
   • Shelf Life: Stable under proper storage conditions; exposure to air may lead to gradual surface oxidation
8. Safety and Handling
   • Hazards:
     • Fine silicon powder can ignite if exposed to high heat or strong oxidizing agents
     • Silicon dust may cause respiratory irritation if inhaled
   • Recommended Protective Measures:
     • Use PPE, including gloves, goggles, and respirators
     • Handle in a controlled or inert environment to minimize oxidation or combustion risks

Applications

1. Energy Storage
   • Battery Anodes: Silicon nanoparticles are extensively researched for use in lithium-ion battery anodes due to their high theoretical capacity, offering significant energy density improvements compared to graphite-based anodes
   • Supercapacitors: Silicon nanostructures can improve energy density and charge-discharge rates in advanced energy storage devices
2. Electronics and Semiconductors
   • Microelectronics: Silicon is a cornerstone material for semiconductor devices; nanoscale silicon enables advancements in high-performance electronics
   • Photovoltaics: Utilized in solar cells, including thin-film and hybrid solar technologies, to improve light absorption and efficiency
3. Nanocomposites
   • Reinforced Materials: Silicon nanoparticles enhance the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of composite materials like polymers, ceramics, and metals
   • Lightweight Components: Widely used in the aerospace and automotive industries for creating high-strength, lightweight materials
4. Catalysis
   • Chemical Catalysis: Silicon nanoparticles act as catalysts or catalyst supports in selective chemical reactions
   • Environmental Applications: Used in photocatalysis for pollutant degradation
5. Biomedical Applications (Exploratory)
   • Drug Delivery: Nanoscale silicon is being researched for its potential in targeted drug delivery systems due to its biocompatibility and large surface area
   • Biosensors: Functionalized silicon nanoparticles are used for highly sensitive detection of biological molecules
6. Coatings and Surface Engineering
   • Antireflective Coatings: Silicon nanopowder is applied in optical coatings to reduce reflection and improve light transmission
   • Wear-Resistant Coatings: Enhances surface durability, thermal resistance, and mechanical strength
7. Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing
   • Advanced Powders: Silicon nanopowder is utilized in additive manufacturing for creating components with unique electronic, thermal, or mechanical properties
8. Optoelectronics
   • Light-Emitting Devices: Nanoscale silicon is being explored for photonic applications, including LEDs and quantum-dot-based devices
   • Infrared Sensors: Silicon’s transparency in the infrared spectrum makes it advantageous for infrared sensor technologies

In Summary

Silicon Nanopowder (Si, 99%, 100 nm) is a high-purity, nanoscale material offering significant advantages over bulk silicon, including enhanced surface area and reactivity. It is extensively used in energy storage, electronics, catalysis, and nanocomposites. Proper storage under inert conditions and careful handling are critical to maintaining its quality and ensuring safety.