Synthesis of carbon-encapsulated iron nanoparticles via solid state reduction of iron oxide nanoparticles

The encapsulation of iron nanoparticles in protective carbon cages leads to unique hybrid core–shell nanomaterials. Recent literature reports suggest that such nanocomposites can be obtained in a relatively simple process involving the solid state carbothermal reduction of iron oxide nanoparticles. This approach is very attractive because it does not require advanced equipment and consumes less energy in comparison to widely used plasma methods. The presented more-in-depth study shows that the carbothermal approach is sensitive to temperature and the process yield strongly depends on the morphology and crystallinity of the carbon material used as a reductant.

Graphical abstractReduction of iron oxide nanoparticles by carbon black at 1200 °C yields well crystallized carbon-encapsulated iron nanoparticles.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Carbon-encapsulated iron nanoparticles were synthesized by carbothermal reduction of iron oxide nanoparticles. ► The process has the highest selectivity at 1200 °C. ► Lower temperatures result in iron oxide nanoparticles wrapped in carbon matrix. ► The encapsulation rate of Fe at 1200 °C was found to be 15%.