Understanding Nickel Oxide: Properties and Structural Characteristics
Nickel Oxide (NiO) is an important inorganic nickel compound widely used in battery materials, ceramics, catalysts, electronics, and metallurgy. It typically appears as a green to black crystalline powder and is known for its excellent thermal stability, strong chemical resistance, and reliable electrochemical behavior. Owing to these characteristics, NiO serves as a fundamental nickel source in both industrial manufacturing and advanced materials research.
Key Physical and Chemical Properties
Property | Value / Description |
Chemical Formula | NiO |
CAS Number | 1313-99-1 |
Molecular Weight | 74.69 g/mol |
Appearance | Green to black powder |
Melting Point | ~1955°C |
Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in acids |
Stability | Excellent thermal and chemical stability |



Thermal Behavior and Chemical Stability
NiO demonstrates outstanding thermal stability and maintains its structure at high temperatures. Under reducing atmospheres, it can be converted into metallic nickel, making it a valuable intermediate in metallurgical processes and catalyst preparation. Its stable oxidation state and resistance to decomposition support long-term use in energy and industrial environments.
Major Applications of Nickel Oxide
Thanks to its stable structure, high purity, and functional versatility, Nickel Oxide is widely applied across a range of industries.
Battery Materials and Energy Storage
Nickel Oxide is extensively used as a raw material or precursor for producing nickel-based electrode materials, including nickel hydroxide and mixed nickel oxides. These materials are essential components in lithium-ion batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and other energy-storage systems. NiO-based materials are valued for their good electrochemical performance, high capacity potential, and stable cycling behavior.
Ceramics, Glass, and Pigments
In the ceramics and glass industries, NiO functions as a coloring agent and functional additive. It imparts green, gray, or black coloration to ceramic bodies, glazes, and glass products while improving thermal stability and chemical resistance. Its consistent performance during high-temperature firing makes it a preferred nickel compound for ceramic and pigment applications.
Catalysts and Chemical Processing
Nickel Oxide is widely used in the preparation of nickel-based catalysts for hydrogenation, oxidation, reforming, and environmental catalytic reactions. Catalysts derived from NiO exhibit good activity, durability, and resistance to deactivation, making them suitable for petrochemical processing and fine chemical production.
Electronics and Functional Materials
In electronic and functional material applications, NiO is used in sensors, electrochromic devices, transparent conductive layers, and thin-film technologies. Its semiconducting properties and thermal stability support its use in electronic components that require reliable performance under varying environmental conditions.
Metallurgy and Alloy Production
Nickel Oxide is an important intermediate in metallurgical processes for producing metallic nickel and nickel-based alloys. These alloys are widely used in stainless steel, superalloys, and corrosion-resistant materials, where strength, heat resistance, and durability are critical.
Conclusion
Nickel oxide plays a vital role in a wide range of industrial applications thanks to its excellent thermal stability, chemical durability, and versatility in catalysts, ceramics, energy materials, and electronic components. Choosing a reliable supplier is essential to ensure consistent product quality, stable performance, and long-term production efficiency.
With extensive experience in nickel and cobalt chemical manufacturing, FAIRSKY is committed to providing high-quality nickel oxide products and professional technical support to global customers, helping meet the evolving demands of advanced materials and industrial applications.
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