Uniform and spherical ZrC nanoparticles derived from metal organic frameworks by one-step thermal decomposition

The ZrC nanoparticles were successfully fabricated using a novel amorphous zirconium metal-organic frameworks (aZMOFs) by one-step thermal decomposition at 1500 degrees C. The effects of different metal/linker ratios and solvent types on the synthesized ZrC nanoparticles were investigated. The property analysis of the particle in terms of phase purity, particle size, TG-DTA analysis and morphology indicated the as-synthesized ZrC nanoparticles with high purity, spherical shape and uniform particle size distribution (100 +/- 21 nm). Notably, the partial distilled water substitution of DMF solvent amplifies the coordination between zirconium and linker, which leads to improving the consumption of excess carbon via carbothermal reduction. The current research provides a potential cost-effective synthesis method of preparing ultra-high temperature ceramic (UHTC) nanoparticles as matrices for fiber reinforced UHTC composites.