Nanoscale skeletal nickel catalysts prepared via 'bottom up' method

NiAl nanoparticles are of considerable importance because of interest in examining the effects of size, surface area, and composition on their physical and catalytic properties. Recently, a new method for the ‘bottom up’ wet chemical preparation of nickel aluminides has been reported. The ability to leach the aluminum from this system provides an entrance to the preparation of skeletal-type metal catalysts similar to those produced in Raney-type systems. Furthermore, it is believed that these nanoparticulate catalysts should provide high surface areas and high activities, while the presence of aluminum within the bulk of these catalysts provides additional stability. Here, we present the results of studies conducted on this system which compare their properties and behavior with traditional bulk Raney nickel systems. Additionally, we show that we are able to alter the properties of these nanoparticles by changing the stoichiometric ratio of nickel and aluminum. The properties of all systems have been analyzed through the use of nitrogen adsorption, X-ray diffraction, and elemental analysis. Finally, the catalysts generated have been compared for their activity in the hydrogenation of butyronitrile. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.