Boron Nitride Nanocages Synthesized by a Moderate Thermochemical Approach

Nanoparticle nitriding: Boron nitride nanocages (see Figure) of less than 80 nm are synthesized in large amounts by a moderate chemical route simply by nitriding Fe–B nanoparticles under mild conditions. The synthesis is performed at only 750 °C, and the product shows rather promising solid-state lubricating properties. A synthesis mechanism is also proposed.