Nickel oxide and nickel salts are inorganic nickel compounds used primarily for their chemical, electrochemical, catalytic, and functional properties. They are essential materials in batteries, catalysts, ceramics, pigments, electroplating, electronics, and chemical synthesis.
Nickel Oxides
| Compound | Formula | Oxidation State | Importance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nickel(II) Oxide | NiO | +2 | Primary industrial oxide |
| Nickel(III) Oxide | Ni₂O₃ | +3 | Laboratory use |
| Mixed Oxide | Ni₃O₄ | Mixed | Transitional compound |
Nickel Salts
| Category | Example | Key Use |
|---|---|---|
| Sulfates | NiSO₄·6H₂O | Electroplating |
| Chlorides | NiCl₂·6H₂O | Catalysis |
| Nitrates | Ni(NO₃)₂·6H₂O | Precursors |
| Carbonates | NiCO₃ | Pigments |
| Acetates | Ni(CH₃COO)₂ | Chemical synthesis |
| Oxalates | NiC₂O₄ | Intermediate compounds |
Chemical Composition
| Nickel(II) Oxide | wt% |
|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | ~78.6 |
| Oxygen (O) | ~21.4 |
Physical Properties – NiO
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Green to black powder |
| Density | ~6.7 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | ~1955 °C |
| Electrical Behavior | p-type semiconductor |
| Magnetic Behavior | Antiferromagnetic |
Available Forms
Nickel Oxide: powders, nano-powders, granules, pellets, sintered ceramics
Nickel Salts: crystals, powders, flakes, aqueous solutions
Applications
Energy & Batteries: cathode materials, battery precursors, SOFCs
Electroplating: nickel ion source, sulfamate baths
Catalysis: hydrogenation and reforming catalysts
Ceramics & Glass: pigments, glazes, magnetic ceramics
Electronics: sensors, thin films, semiconductor research
Advantages
✔ Essential for battery & energy technologies
✔ High chemical & thermal stability
✔ Excellent electrochemical performance
✔ Versatile precursor materials
✔ Scalable industrial production
Limitations & Safety
❌ Toxic and potentially carcinogenic compounds
❌ Requires PPE and controlled handling
❌ Environmental disposal regulations apply
❌ Not suitable for structural use
Why Choose Nickel Oxide & Nickel Salts?
These materials are chosen when electrochemical activity, catalytic performance, chemical precision, and high-temperature stability are critical in advanced energy, electronics, and chemical processing systems.