Technical Specifications
1. General Information
- Product Name: Silicon Oxide Nanopowder
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂
- Purity: ≥ 99%
- Particle Size: 20-30 nm
- Form: Fine nanopowder
- Color: White to off-white, depending on the particle size and processing method
2. Chemical Composition
- Elemental Composition: Silicon (Si) and Oxygen (O) in a 1:2 ratio (SiO₂)
- Impurities: Trace amounts of other elements and residual synthesis by-products
- Moisture Content: ≤ 1%
3. Physical Properties
- Particle Size Distribution: 20-30 nm with a controlled size distribution
- Surface Area: 100-300 m²/g (varies based on processing)
- Density:
- Bulk Density: 2.2 g/cm³
- Tap Density: 1.8 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 1,600°C
- Boiling Point: 2,230°C
- Thermal Stability: Stable up to 1,200°C without significant structural changes
- Crystalline Structure: Amorphous or crystalline (depending on synthesis conditions)
4. Morphological Characteristics
- Shape: Primarily spherical or near-spherical nanoparticles
- Agglomeration: Moderate tendency to agglomerate; may require dispersants or surface treatments for uniform distribution in applications
- Surface Morphology: Smooth to slightly rough surfaces, potentially with functional groups depending on processing and functionalization
5. Handling and Storage
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and contaminants
- Packaging: Typically available in sealed, moisture-resistant containers to prevent contamination and moisture absorption
- Safety Precautions:
- Avoid inhalation of fine dust particles; use appropriate respiratory protection
- Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing during handling
- Handle in a well-ventilated area or under an inert atmosphere if necessary
- Prevent exposure to open flames or high temperatures as silicon oxide is non-combustible but may react with certain chemicals at elevated temperatures
6. Regulatory Compliance
- Standards: Complies with relevant material safety standards such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)
- Certifications: May vary based on manufacturer; ensure compliance with local and international regulations as applicable
7. Synthesis Methods
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Produces high-purity SiO₂ nanoparticles with controlled size and morphology through vapor-phase deposition of silicon precursors.
- Sol-Gel Processes: Utilizes the transition of a system from a liquid “sol” into a solid “gel” phase, allowing precise control over particle size and distribution.
- Hydrothermal Synthesis: Conducts reactions in aqueous solutions at high temperatures and pressures to produce high-purity SiO₂ nanoparticles with controlled crystallinity.
- Thermal Decomposition: Decomposes silicon-containing precursors at elevated temperatures to form SiO₂ nanoparticles.
- Microwave-Assisted Synthesis: Uses microwave radiation to accelerate the chemical reactions, resulting in uniform particle sizes and reduced synthesis times.
8. Functionalization
- Surface Treatments: Can be functionalized with various chemical groups (e.g., hydroxyl, carboxyl, amine) to enhance compatibility with different matrices or to impart specific properties such as hydrophobicity, electrical conductivity, or catalytic activity.
- Dispersants: May require the addition of dispersing agents or surfactants to prevent agglomeration in composite materials and ensure uniform distribution.
Applications
1. Electronics and Semiconductors
- Insulating Materials: Silicon oxide is widely used as an insulating material in semiconductor devices such as transistors and capacitors. It helps to isolate different components and prevent electrical interference.
- Thin-Film Deposition: Used in thin-film deposition processes for electronic and photonic devices. SiO₂ thin films are commonly used for insulation and as a protective layer in microelectronics.
- Dielectrics: SiO₂ is an essential material in dielectrics for electronic components, providing high electrical resistance and low dielectric constant for capacitors and other components.
2. Energy Storage and Conversion
- Battery Materials: SiO₂ nanoparticles are used in advanced lithium-ion battery anodes, improving energy density and cycle life by providing a stable framework for the expansion and contraction of the electrode materials.
- Supercapacitors: Incorporated into supercapacitor electrodes to increase surface area and energy storage capacity, benefiting from silicon oxide’s high surface area and conductivity.
- Fuel Cells: SiO₂ is utilized as a catalyst support or an insulating layer in fuel cells, enhancing their efficiency and stability.
3. Nanocomposites
- Reinforcement Agent: SiO₂ is widely used in polymer, metal, and ceramic nanocomposites to significantly enhance mechanical properties such as strength, hardness, wear resistance, and thermal stability.
- Optical Nanocomposites: Used in the fabrication of transparent and optical-grade nanocomposites, providing improved light transmission, and optical clarity for applications like coatings, lenses, and displays.
- Conductive Composites: SiO₂ can be incorporated into conductive composites to enhance properties like electrical conductivity and electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection.
4. Photocatalysis and Environmental Applications
- Photocatalysts: SiO₂ nanoparticles are explored for use in photocatalytic applications such as water splitting and air purification, where they help to degrade organic pollutants under UV light.
- Environmental Cleanup: Used in environmental applications for the removal of pollutants, especially heavy metals, from wastewater, utilizing SiO₂’s high surface area for adsorption.
- Pollution Control: Employed in materials designed to capture or neutralize harmful substances in industrial emissions, contributing to cleaner air and reduced environmental impact.
5. Biomedical Applications
- Drug Delivery Systems: SiO₂ nanoparticles are used in drug delivery systems, providing a stable, biocompatible material for encapsulating and delivering drugs in a controlled manner.
- Medical Imaging: SiO₂ nanoparticles are being explored as contrast agents for imaging techniques such as MRI, providing enhanced resolution and accuracy in diagnostics.
- Antimicrobial Coatings: SiO₂ can be used to create antimicrobial surfaces, preventing the growth of bacteria and other pathogens on medical devices, surgical instruments, and hospital surfaces.
6. Optical Applications
- Optical Coatings: SiO₂ is a crucial component in optical coatings for lenses, mirrors, and optical fibers, enhancing the transmission and reflection properties of light.
- Laser Systems: Used in laser materials, where SiO₂ provides high durability and optical clarity, contributing to the stability and efficiency of laser systems.
7. Aerospace and Defense
- Thermal Insulation: SiO₂ is used in aerospace applications as a thermal insulator, providing heat resistance for components exposed to extreme temperatures, such as heat shields and thermal protection systems.
- Lightweight Materials: SiO₂ nanoparticles are incorporated into lightweight, high-strength composites for use in aircraft, spacecraft, and defense materials, contributing to performance and fuel efficiency.
- Sensors and Detection Systems: SiO₂ is used in sensors for detecting chemicals, gases, and other environmental factors in aerospace and defense applications.
8. Wear-Resistant Coatings
- Protective Coatings: SiO₂ nanoparticles are used in protective coatings for industrial machinery, tools, and coatings exposed to high wear and harsh environments, providing enhanced abrasion resistance and durability.
- Surface Treatments: SiO₂ coatings are applied to materials to enhance their resistance to corrosion, wear, and chemical damage, extending the lifespan of critical components.
9. Additive Manufacturing
- 3D Printing: SiO₂ nanoparticles are utilized in 3D printing processes, especially for applications that require high-resolution and precision, as well as materials with high strength and thermal stability.
- Ceramic Additives: Used as an additive in ceramic 3D printing, SiO₂ helps to create intricate and strong components, useful in industries such as aerospace and healthcare.
10. Industrial Manufacturing
- Semiconductor Manufacturing: SiO₂ is an essential material in semiconductor processing, used in etching, photolithography, and as a dielectric layer in microchips.
- Polishing and Abrasives: SiO₂ nanoparticles are used as polishing agents in manufacturing processes for semiconductor wafers, optical surfaces, and other precision materials, providing smooth and high-quality finishes.
