Synthesis and characterization of cross-like Ni-Co-P microcomposites

Highlights: • Synthesizing the cross-like Ni-Co-P microcomposites by an adapted electroless deposition technique • Showing the perfect cross-like shape with an approximate stoichiometry of Ni₁₂-Co₆-P₁₂-O₇₀ • Exhibiting the properties of optical absorbance, superparamagnetism and hydrogen evolution The cross-like crystallines of Ni-Co-P microcomposites were synthesized via a simple hydrothermal method under high pressure and temperature which is adapted from the classical electroless deposition technique for surface modification. Here hypophosphite was employed as reductant and phosphorus resource to prepare the composites of Ni, Co and P elements. The obtain Ni-Co-P microcomposites were characterized in morphology, composition and properties. They show the perfect cross-like shape with an approximate stoichiometry of Ni₁₂-Co₆-P₁₂-O₇₀. The high absorbance in UV area and wide absorbance in vis area are observed. They also exhibit superparamagnetic behavior and hydrogen evolution property.