Metal oxide nanopowder chemistry

Table 14.7 illustrates soft-chemistry approach for the synthesis of metal oxide nanopowder with advantages and disadvantages. 

Transition metal carbides and nitrides find broad interest in chemistry and technology. In the form of nanopowders they can be used in electronics and for catalysis. As catalysts they have similar properties to those of the expensive noble metals. They are extremely hard and therefore are often used in cutting tools or in harsh abrasive conditions. However, nanoparticulate nitrides and carbides are more reactive due to heir higher specific surface area. Some of them oxidize rapidly in air and are typically passivated with a thin layer of oxide before exposure to ambient conditions. 

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