A novel route to obtain B4C nano powder via sol–gel method

Boron carbide nanopowders and nanowhiskers were synthesized using phenolic resin and boron alkoxide as precursors through sol–gel process in water–solvent–catalyst–dispersant system. The effects of soaking time on free carbon content and synthesized B4C particles morphology were evaluated at 1270 °C. The synthesis process of B4C nanopowders was completed at 1270 °C after 1 h while B4C nanowhiskers were heterogeneously nucleated and grown from obtained nanopowders after 3 h.