Monodisperse nanoparticles of Ni and NiO: Synthesis, characterization, self-assembled superlattices, and catalytic applications in the Suzuki coupling reaction

Monodisperse spherical Ni nanoparticles with diameters of 2 nm, 5 nm, and 7 nm were synthesized from the thermal decomposition of a Ni-oleylamine complex. Ni nanocrystal superlattices were generated via the controlled evaporation of solvent (see Figure). The nanoparticles were successfully used as catalysts for the Suzuki coupling reaction, and were readily oxidized to produce NiO nanoparticles.