Nickel(Iii) Oxide
Nickel(III) oxide is a chemical compound with the formula Ni2O3. It is a dark green to black solid that is insoluble in water and most organic solvents.
The compound can be prepared by heating nickel(II) hydroxide or nickel(II) carbonate in air at temperatures between 350-450°C. The reaction produces nickel(III) oxide along with water and carbon dioxide as byproducts:
Ni(OH)2 → Ni2O3 + H2O
NiCO3 → Ni2O3 + CO2
Nickel(III) oxide has a rhombohedral crystal structure and is antiferromagnetic below its Néel temperature of approximately 520 K. It is an important material for ceramic and electronic applications, such as catalysis, gas sensing, and magnetic storage devices.
In terms of safety, nickel(III) oxide is considered to be harmful if ingested or inhaled, and may cause skin irritation upon contact. Appropriate precautions should be taken when handling this compound, including wearing gloves and avoiding exposure to dust or fumes.