Nanostructured titanium, zirconium and hafnium diborides: the synthesis, properties, size effects and stability

The review is concerned with methods of synthesis of nanopowders, nanowires and films based on titanium, zirconium and hafnium diborides. Methods for consolidation of nanoparticles in order to prepare bulk nanostructured samples are analyzed. Information on the physicochemical and physicomechanical properties of these systems is generalized and the role of the size effects is analyzed. Data on the thermal stability and influence of radiation, deformation and corrosion on the TiB2-, ZrB2- and HfB2-based nanostructures are presented. Poorly studied aspects of the title field of research are pointed out.