A simple and novel route to synthesize nano-vanadium carbide using magnesium powders, vanadium pentoxide and different carbon source

Vanadium carbide (VC) was prepared via a simple and novel route by the reaction of metallic magnesium powders with vanadium pentoxide (V2O5), citric acid (C6H8O7) at 650 °C or potassium acetate (CH3COOK) at 500 °C in an autoclave. During the formation reaction, citric acid and potassium acetate were used as carbon sources because they were much easier to manipulate, lower toxic and lower cost than other carbon sources, such as carbon tetrachloride(CCl4), melamine (C3N3(NH2)3) and cyanamide (CN2H2). Phase structures and morphologies were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that all the products were cubic VC, which consisted of particles with an average size of about 50 nm and 80 nm in diameter. This method can be carried out at a mild condition, which may find potential industrial applications due to the economy and efficiency of the synthesis of VC nanopowders.

Research highlights
► The synthsized temperatures are lower than some conventional methods.
► These raw materials are safe; all manipulations are rather safe and convenient.
► Carbon sources are much cheaper and lower toxic than other organic carbon sources.
► The synthesis of VC nanopowders may find potential industrial applications.