Novel synthesis of TiN fine powders by nitridation with ammonium chloride

TiN fine powders were prepared by the reaction of TiH2 with ammonium chloride at various temperatures under a flow of N2/H2 mixed gas. In a temperature range of 500–800°C, the powder samples obtained had a particle size of 3–20 nm, and a specific surface area of 30–60 m2/g. The particle size increased with the increase of the reaction temperature. The lattice parameters and the chemical analysis data showed that the TiN powder had the stoichiometric composition. The TiN powder prepared at temperatures of 600–800°C showed superconductivity with a transition temperature of 4.0–4.5 K.