Graphite-encapsulated iron particles grown by mist-CVD

Abstract

In this paper, a novel and simple method for synthesis of iron nanoparticles using a CVD of ferrocene-ethanol mist was proposed. By using this technique, graphite-encapsulated Fe2O3 nanoparticles could be synthesized at a low temperature of ∼400°C under 1 atm. The synthesis temperature as well as the deposition position and time were found to determine the amount of carbon-filament impurities in the obtained materials. The addition of water mist in the growth atmosphere was found to be a key parameter for eliminating carbon by-products due to the water-asisted etching effect. The result of this study could be useful for the production of graphite-encapsulated iron particles since our modified CVD technique is simple and low-cost. © 2009 American Institute of Physics.