| Abstract: | Preparation and characterization of NiBi nano‐ and micro‐particles are presented. Firstly, predetermined compositions were obtained by simultaneous precipitation from solutions of Bi(NO3)3 and Ni(NO3)2. The precipitates were heated under oxygen flow and in air, and thereafter reduced to metals under hydrogen flow at 673 K. Correlation between the predetermined and the actual compositions of the products was found. Characterization of the precipitates was carried out employing X‐ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Nickel‐bismuth intermetallic phase (NiBi) particles with nano‐ and micro‐dimensions were observed in the samples after reduction. The other possible Ni–Bi intermediate phase (NiBi3) did not form at these conditions although its presence was expected according to the phase diagram. This finding might be useful for the implementation of Bi‐based solders where the growth of the compound NiBi3 in the solder joints must be prevented. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) |
