Iron Carbides and Nitrides: Ancient Materials with Novel Prospects

Abstract

Iron carbides and nitrides have aroused great interests in the researchers due to the excellent magnetic properties, good machinability and the particular catalytic activity. Based on these advantages, iron carbides and nitrides can be applied in various areas such as magnetic materials, biomedical, photo- and electro-catalysis. Compared to their simple element components, the synthesis of iron carbides and nitrides still has great challenges, particularly at the nanoscale, but it is usually beneficial to improve performance in corresponding application. In this review, we introduce the investigations about iron carbides and nitrides, concerning their structure, synthesis strategy and various applications from magnetism to the catalysis. Furthermore, the prospect is also discussed briefly.