Simple processing method and characterisation of nanosized metal powders

There is an increasing demand for fine metal powders with sizes below 1 μm for a range of applications including catalysts, sintering aids, magnetic recording tapes, magnetic fluid, additives for propellants/explosives, microwave absorption, batteries and electronic applications. Recent research at University of Birmingham has led to the development of a simple and flexible processing method of nanosized powders of elemental, alloy and compound materials. Their particle size, morphology and distribution have been characterised using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The oxidation behaviour and the magnetic properties of the nanosized powders have been studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), respectively. This paper highlights the microstructure and properties of the nanosized Al, Fe, Ni, Cu and TiN powders produced by this simple method.