Synthesis of cobalt-containing nanoparticles by cobalt formate thermolysis in hydrocarbon oil without stabilizing ligands

A simple and available method is proposed for the synthesis of cobalt-containing nanoparticles. This method comprises cobalt formate thermolysis in hydrocarbon oil without extra stabilizing ligands. The size, composition, and structure of the nanoparticles are determined by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and electron diffraction. The average particle size is 10–14 nm. The major components are cobalt oxides CoO and Co 3 O 4 . Apart from these oxides, the particles contain minor metallic cobalt.