Iron oxide nanoparticle powders with high surface area

Abstract

Iron oxide nanomaterials with desired properties synthesized in the form of nanoparticle powders can find attractive applicability, e.g. in catalysis. Hence it is necessary to thoroughly characterize the materials by several measuring techniques. Two selected samples of amorphous Fe2O3 nanoparticles with high specific surface area values were prepared by the thermal treatment of different iron-bearing precursors. In addition to Mössbauer and microscopy methods, the nitrogen sorption based surface analysis is discussed from the viewpoint of textural morphology characterization of mentioned nanomaterials. The nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms have been measured and indicate the presence of micro and mesoporosity. One can conclude that the porosity arises from intra-aggregate voids and spaces formed by inter-particle contacts. The state of agglomeration can be estimated and appropriate application chosen.