A simple thermal decomposition-nitridation route to nanocrystalline boron nitride (BN) from a single N and B source precursor

► Nanocrystalline BN was synthesized via a thermal decomposition-nitridation route. ► B and N sources come from a single cheap safe precursor NH4HB4O7·3H2O. ► The reaction could be carried out in an autoclave at 650 °C for 8 h. ► X-ray powder diffraction patterns indicate that the product is hexagonal BN. ► The product has good thermal stability and oxidation resistance below 900 °C.