Synthesis and characterization of α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles of different shapes

Interest in developing a nano-oxidizer matrix for reaction with nano Al for energetic applications led to the development of nanometric Fe2O3. We have reported a synthetic procedure for nanoiron oxide using starch as the capping agent. Here, aqueous solution of ferric chloride was added into starch solution and after stirring it was basified by triethyl amine to get colloidal precipitate of ferric hydroxide. This precipitate after centrifuging and heating yielded nanoparticles of iron oxide. The method is suitable for scaling up due to its reproducible nature and eco friendliness. This nano-iron oxide was fully characterized by chemical analysis, XRD, SEM, and TEM. The experimental results show that with increasing calcination temperature, particle size as well as morphology changes.