Characterization of Fe–Ni(C) nanocapsules synthesized by arc discharge in methane

Ultrafine Fe–Ni(C) particles of various compositions were prepared by arc discharge synthesis in a methane atmosphere. The particles were characterized by x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, energy disperse spectroscopy, chemical analysis, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and magnetization measurement. The carbon atoms solubilizing at interstitial sites in γ–(Fe, Ni, C) solution particles have the effects of forming austenite structure and changing microstructures as well as magnetic properties. A carbon layer covers the surface of Fe–Ni(C) particles to form the nanocapsules and protect them from oxidization. The mechanism of forming Fe–Ni(C) nanocapsules in the methane atmosphere was analyzed.