Nickel Oxide Nanopowder

Nickel oxide nanopowder is a unique and highly sought-after material that has been gaining significant attention in various industries due to its exceptional properties and wide-ranging applications. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the fascinating world of nickel oxide nanopowder, exploring its composition, characteristics, applications, and the latest advancements in this field.

Overview of Nickel Oxide Nanopowder

Nickel oxide nanopowder is a nanostructured form of nickel oxide (NiO), a compound composed of nickel and oxygen atoms. At the nanoscale, these particles exhibit unique properties that differ from their bulk counterparts, making them highly desirable for a variety of applications. Nanopowders are characterized by their incredibly small particle size, typically ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers (nm) in at least one dimension.

One of the key advantages of nickel oxide nanopowder is its high surface area-to-volume ratio, which results in increased reactivity and improved performance in catalytic processes, energy storage systems, and sensor applications. Additionally, the unique properties of nanomaterials often lead to enhanced mechanical strength, thermal stability, and optical properties compared to conventional materials.

Composition and Properties of Nickel Oxide Nanopowder

Nickel oxide nanopowder exhibits a distinct green color due to its unique electronic structure. It crystallizes in a face-centered cubic (fcc) or rock salt structure, where nickel and oxygen atoms are arranged in a cubic pattern. The small particle size and high surface area contribute to the enhanced reactivity and performance of nickel oxide nanopowder in various applications.

Industrial Applications of Nickel Oxide Nanopowder

Nickel oxide nanopowder finds applications across numerous industries due to its exceptional properties. It serves as a catalyst or catalyst support in various chemical reactions, such as reforming, oxidation, and hydrogenation processes, enabling more efficient and selective reactions. Additionally, its high surface area and electrochemical properties make it an attractive material for energy storage applications, including lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells.

In the field of sensors, nickel oxide nanopowder is employed in gas sensors, biosensors, and chemical sensors due to its sensitivity and ability to detect various gases and biomolecules. Furthermore, its unique electrical and optical properties make it suitable for use in electronic devices, such as resistive random-access memory (RRAM), transistors, and optoelectronic devices.

Nickel oxide nanopowder is also utilized as an additive in ceramic materials to improve mechanical strength, thermal stability, and other properties. Additionally, it can be applied as a protective coating on various surfaces to enhance corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and thermal insulation.

Specifications and Grades of Nickel Oxide Nanopowder

Nickel oxide nanopowder is available in different specifications and grades to meet the diverse requirements of various applications. Purity levels ranging from 99% to 99.9% are common, ensuring high-quality and consistent performance. Particle sizes are offered in different ranges, such as <50 nm, <100 nm, and <200 nm, to cater to specific application needs.

Surface area is a crucial parameter, with nickel oxide nanopowders typically available with surface areas ranging from 10 m²/g to over 100 m²/g. The morphology of the particles can vary, including spherical, cubic, or irregular shapes, depending on the synthesis method and desired properties.

Bulk density, an important factor for handling and processing, ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 g/cm³ for nickel oxide nanopowders. Additionally, surface modifications are available to improve dispersion and compatibility with various matrices or composite materials.

Suppliers and Pricing of Nickel Oxide Nanopowder

Nickel oxide nanopowder is widely available from various suppliers, both commercial and research-grade. The pricing can vary significantly depending on factors such as purity, particle size, surface area, and quantities ordered. Generally, smaller quantities are more expensive on a per-kilogram basis.

Sigma-Aldrich, a leading supplier of chemicals and materials, offers nickel oxide nanopowder at prices ranging from $200 to $500 per kilogram, depending on the specifications. Strem Chemicals, specializing in high-purity materials, provides nickel oxide nanopowder at prices between $150 and $400 per kilogram.

American Elements, a renowned supplier of advanced materials, offers nickel oxide nanopowder at competitive prices ranging from $100 to $350 per kilogram. Nanoamor, a company focused on nanomaterials, offers nickel oxide nanopowder at prices between $150 and $450 per kilogram, catering to various application requirements.

US Research Nanomaterials, a specialized supplier of nanomaterials, provides nickel oxide nanopowder at prices ranging from $120 to $300 per kilogram, offering a cost-effective option for researchers and industry professionals.

It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on market conditions, demand, and other factors. Additionally, bulk discounts and custom orders may be available from some suppliers, enabling more cost-effective procurement for larger-scale applications.

Pros and Cons of Nickel Oxide Nanopowder

Like any material, nickel oxide nanopowder has its advantages and disadvantages. One of the major pros is its high surface area-to-volume ratio, which results in enhanced reactivity and catalytic activity. This property makes it attractive for applications in catalysis, energy storage, and sensing.

Additionally, nickel oxide nanopowder exhibits improved electrochemical properties, making it suitable for use in batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. Its unique optical and electronic properties also open up opportunities in electronics and optoelectronics.

Another advantage of nickel oxide nanopowder is the ability to tune its properties through surface modifications, allowing for customization to specific applications. Furthermore, its wide range of applications across various industries adds to its versatility and value.

However, there are also some cons associated with nickel oxide nanopowder. Potential health and environmental concerns arise due to the small size of nanoparticles, which can pose risks if not handled and disposed of properly. The production and processing of nanomaterials can be costly, especially for large-scale applications.

Agglomeration and dispersion challenges are common issues with nanopowders, which can affect their performance and require specialized techniques to address. Additionally, the long-term stability of nickel oxide nanopowder may be limited in certain applications, necessitating careful consideration and testing.

Potential safety hazards during handling and the need for specialized equipment and facilities are other factors that must be taken into account when working with nickel oxide nanopowder. Proper safety protocols and appropriate containment measures are crucial to mitigate risks.

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