Method For Producing Metal Nanopowders By Decomposition Of Metal Carbonyl Using An Induction Plasma Torch

Abstract

A process for synthesizing metal nanopowders by introducing metal carbonyl into an induction plasma torch. By taking advantage of the much lower dissolution temperature of carbonyl as opposed to the high melting temperature of conventional metal powder feeds less torch power is required. Moreover, in contrast to current powder production techniques utilizing electrode based plasma torches, the induction plasma torch does not introduce contaminants into the nanopowder.

1 - 18 . (canceled) 
     
     
         19 . Metal nanopowders made by introducing metal carbonyl into an induction plasma torch, decomposing the metal carbonyl within the induction plasma torch and forming the metal nanopowders. 
     
     
         20 . Metal nanopowders made according to  claim 19  wherein the metal nanopowders are at least substantially spherical. 
     
     
         21 . Metal nanopowders made according to  claim 19  wherein the metal carbonyl is selected from at least one of the group consisting of a gas and a liquid. 
     
     
         22 . Metal nanopowders made according to  claim 19  wherein the metal carbonyl is selected from at least one of the group consisting of nickel carbonyl, iron carbonyl, copper carbonyl, cobalt carbonyl, chromium carbonyl, molybdenum carbonyl, tungsten carbonyl, and ruthenium carbonyl.