nickelphosphorus

Nickelphosphorus is a family of materials based on nickel and phosphorus, including nickel phosphides (Ni2P, Ni12P5, Ni5P4, NiP3) and nickel–phosphorus alloy coatings used for protection and catalysis. The phase and structure depend on composition and processing, ranging from crystalline intermetallics to amorphous phosphide-rich phases.

Chemistry and structure: Nickel phosphides form as nickel-rich phosphide phases with varying Ni:P ratios. Ni2P is among the most studied phases; other stoichiometries occur under different synthesis conditions. Nickel–phosphorus coatings, often deposited by electroless plating, consist of a nickel matrix with dissolved phosphorus; the phosphorus content determines structure, hardness, and corrosion behavior.

Synthesis and processing: Metallic nickel phosphides can be prepared by high-temperature alloying or phosphidation of nickel precursors; electroless nickel–phosphorus coatings are produced in aqueous solutions containing nickel salts and hypophosphite reductants, followed by heat treatment to modify crystallinity and phase composition.

Properties and performance: The materials are typically hard and wear resistant; nickel phosphides exhibit catalytic activity for hydrodesulfurization and hydrogen evolution reactions, and nickel–phosphorus coatings offer corrosion protection. Heat treatment can convert amorphous deposits into crystalline nickel phosphide phases, increasing hardness.

Applications and safety: Used in protective coatings for tools and equipment, and as catalysts or electrocatalysts in chemical and energy technologies. Phosphorus-containing materials can pose specific handling hazards; reference safety data sheets for details on nickel, phosphorus compounds, and phosphine release under certain conditions.