An expeditious synthesis of early transition metal carbide nanoparticles on graphitic carbons

Abstract

An expeditious synthesis of metal carbide nanoparticles onto various carbon supports is demonstrated. The procedure is versatile and readily yields TiC, VC, Mo₂C and W₂C nanoparticles on different types of carbons. The reaction is initiated at room temperature and proceeds within seconds. This novel synthetic route paves the way for a large variety of metal carbide–carbon nanocomposites that may be implemented in emerging nanotechnology fields.