o-Carborane is explored as a capping and passivating agent for metallic aluminum (Al) nanoparticles. PXRD (Powder X-Ray Diffraction) was then used to confirm the synthesis of fcc aluminum nanoparticles. It was seen that the o-carborane (Cb) also formed a crystalline structure while under an inert atmosphere. When exposed to air for 3 days, it was seen that the o-carborane lost its crystalline structure, and instead adopted an amorphous form. Particle sizes on the order of 30 nm were calculated through PXRD, and these sizes were confirmed through analysis of the nanoparticles via TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy). It has been observed that the passivation of the aluminum core with o-carborane has left a very high active aluminum content after initial synthesis. This active aluminum content remains high for time periods on the order of months when exposed to regular atmospheric conditions.

Synthesis of aluminum nanoparticles capped with o-carborane

249th National Meeting (2015)

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