Preparation of ultrafine core-shell nickel spheres via self-sacrificial template

Self-sacrificial template, which is freshly precipitated Ni(OH)2 colloid, is used to fabricate ultrafine core-shell nickel spheres. The size distribution, morphology, chemical and catalyzed properties of the synthesized spheres can be controlled by regulating the preparation conditions. The varying conditions are: initial nickel ion concentration, the pH value of the solution, the scouring agent and the anion in saline solution. With very little Ni2+ concentration in the solution, the hollow spheres are formed. The higher the alkali content, the more the ultrafine colloidal cores.