Preparation of nanosized nickel powder by direct-current electrolysis combined with high-voltage spark discharge

The possibility of obtaining nanosized nickel powder by simultaneous dc electrolysis and high-voltage spark discharge has been explored. The powder has been prepared from a nickel sulfate-containing electrolyte using soluble nickel anodes at a cathodic current density in the range of 11000–19000 A/m2, a voltage on the spark gap of 12–16 kV, and a pulse repetition frequency of 0.5 Hz. The effect of various factors on the synthesis of the powder has been studied and the optimum conditions for its preparation have been found using mathematical experiment design. The size distribution of particles has been determined with a particle size analyzer. The BET specific surface area of the powder has been measured to be 11.7 ± 2.1 m2/g.