Synthesis of Inorganic and Metallic Nanoparticles by Miniemulsification of Molten Salts and Metals

A new and extraordinarily convenient route for the synthesis of nanoparticulate salts, metals, and metal oxides is presented. This technique is based on a liquid−liquid technology, namely, the miniemulsification of a molten or precursor state and subsequent heterophase reaction toward the desired product. First, data on the synthesis of iron oxide, magnetite, zirconia, and calcium carbonate are presented. The miniemulsification process is also suited to prepare metallic nanoparticles by using gallium or alloys with a low melting point.