2.2. Chemistry. Synthesis of nanopowders was carried out by
combusting a solution of liquid-phase iron pentacarbonyl
(IPC, Fe(CO)5, >99.99% trace metals basis, Sigma Aldrich)
and tetramethyl tin (TMT, Sn(CH3)4, 95% purity, Sigma
Aldrich) precursors. Table 1 lists the relevant thermophysical
properties of these chemicals as obtained from the supplier.
Of interest are the boiling points, flash points, and phase
of the precursors. These properties were comparable for the
precursors considering the steep temperature gradients in the
flame which ensured the compatibility of these precursors
for the current premixed delivery system. In the delivery
system, the solution was contained in a bubbler reservoir,
where glass beads were included to facilitate evaporation
of the liquid mixture. Argon gas was bubbled through the
reservoir at room temperature. Low boiling points of the
precursors yielded nearly saturated argon gas flow. An en