Silicon Nanopowder (Si, 99%, 50-70 nm)

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 non-metallic elements)
3. Particle Size
   • Average Size: 50–70 nm
   • Particle Size Distribution: Confirmed using SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) or TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy)
4. Morphology
   • Shape: Near-spherical or irregular, depending on synthesis route
   • Surface Area: High surface area due to the nanoscale size, though lower than smaller (<50 nm) nanoparticles
5. Crystal Structure
   • Phase: Cubic diamond structure (crystalline silicon)
   • Variations: Amorphous silicon or small deviations in crystallinity may occur depending on production 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 alter electrical properties
7. Packaging and Storage
   • Standard Packaging: Sealed under inert gas (e.g., argon) or vacuum-sealed to prevent oxidation
   • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place; protect from moisture and air to minimize oxidation
   • Shelf Life: Stable under proper storage conditions; surface oxidation may develop if exposed to air over time
8. Safety and Handling
   • Hazards:
     • Fine silicon powder can ignite when exposed to heat or strong oxidizing agents
     • Silicon dust may irritate the respiratory tract if inhaled
   • Recommended Protective Measures:
     • Use PPE (e.g., gloves, goggles, and respirators)
     • Handle in a controlled or inert environment to reduce risks of oxidation and combustion

Applications

1. Energy Storage
   • Battery Anodes: Silicon nanoparticles are extensively researched as high-capacity anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, offering significantly higher theoretical capacity than graphite, though challenges such as volumetric expansion persist
   • Supercapacitors: Silicon nanostructures can enhance energy density and charge-discharge rates
2. Electronics and Semiconductors
   • Microelectronics: Silicon nanomaterials are fundamental in the development of advanced electronic components
   • Photovoltaics: Silicon nanoparticles are used in thin-film and hybrid solar cells to improve efficiency and reduce costs
3. Nanocomposites
   • Reinforced Materials: Silicon nanoparticles improve the thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties of polymers, ceramics, and metals
   • Lightweight Components: Used in aerospace and automotive industries for creating high-strength, lightweight composites
4. Catalysis
   • Chemical Catalysis: Silicon nanostructures are effective as catalysts or catalyst supports in chemical reactions
   • Environmental Applications: Photocatalytic properties are leveraged in pollutant degradation
5. Biomedical Applications (Experimental)
   • Drug Delivery: Silicon nanoparticles are being studied for controlled drug delivery due to their biocompatibility and large surface area
   • Biosensors: Surface-functionalized silicon nanostructures can detect biological molecules with high sensitivity
6. Coatings and Surface Engineering
   • Antireflective Coatings: Used in optical applications to minimize reflection and enhance light absorption
   • Protective Coatings: Improves surface hardness, thermal resistance, and wear resistance
7. Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing
   • Advanced Powders: Silicon nanopowder is employed in specialized 3D printing for components requiring unique electronic or thermal properties
8. Optoelectronics
   • Light-Emitting Devices: Explored for photonic applications, including LEDs and other devices that benefit from the quantum properties of nanoscale silicon
   • Infrared Sensors: Silicon’s transparency in the IR spectrum makes it useful in sensor applications

In Summary

Silicon Nanopowder (Si, 99%, 50–70 nm) is a high-purity, nanoscale material offering excellent semiconducting and thermal properties. It is widely used in energy storage, electronics, nanocomposites, and optoelectronic applications. Proper storage in inert conditions and careful handling are critical to maintain quality and ensure safe usage.