Solid-state phase transformations in solution: templated conversion of nanoscale nickel phosphides

Abstract

Conversion of Ni₁₂P₅ nanoparticles to Ni₂P is demonstrated to occur via a solid-state, rather than a solution dissolution, process. The templated transformation is employed to make monodisperse hollow or solid particles of the catalytically active phase Ni₂P with surface areas of ∼17 m² g⁻¹.