Boron Oxide Nanoparticles

Boron Oxide nanoparticles (B₂O₃) show relatively similar properties to bulk B₂O₃. There are two different crystalline phases and an amorphous phase of B₂O_3. The crystalline phases are α- B₂O₃ (low-pressure) and β- B₂O₃ (high-pressure) while the amorphous phase is g- B₂O₃ (glass-like). The nanosized B₂O₃ materials are found to be advantageous compared to bulk material since the processing of bulk material requires high temperatures and specialized equipment. B₂O₃ nanoparticles are used as additives in oxide glasses and ceramics for industrial uses such as optical glasses, insulation fiberglass, fire retardants, radiation shielding, and dielectric applications. Additionally, B₂O₃ nanoparticles are typical Lewis acids. Hence, they are suitable for catalytic applications in organic reactions such as oxidative dehydrogenation of light alkenes. Another novel use of B₂O₃ nanoparticles is as an adsorbent for polysulfides and iodine species in Li–S and Li–I₂ batteries.