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Synthesis of nanoparticles using electrical discharges.

Matt Griffith Andrzej Calka David Wexler 1

1. University of Wollongong, Wollongong NSW, Australia

Abstract

Electric discharges were used to the synthesis of  nanoparticles and nanofragments. We describe results of an experimental program underway to investigate phase transformations and/or particle fragmentation during electric discharges using a new pulsed power supply working at frequencies in the kHz range. The aims were to determine processing parameters required for the synthesis of potentially useful high surface area nanoparticles of VC and WC hardmetals.

Microstructural, morphological and phase changes induced by kHz discharges were characterised by X-ray diffractommetry and transmission electron microscopy. Results were found to depend on the often competing processes of fragmentation into nanoparticles, agglomeration of powder particles, particle melting and/or sintering and chemical reactions. Discharge synthesis of WC and VC resulted in products including: micron and submicron fracture products, nanostructural regions and   nanorods.

 

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Related papers

Presentation: Oral at E-MRS Fall Meeting 2008, Symposium F, by Andrzej Calka
See On-line Journal of E-MRS Fall Meeting 2008

Submitted: 2008-07-01 14:32
Revised:   2009-06-07 00:48