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Nickel mesh or nickel wire mesh is a kind of fine metal mesh that is woven from nickel wires or stretched from a nickel sheet or coil. Both nickel wire and nickel sheet contain high-purity nickel content, usually at 99.5% or even over 99.9% depending on customer requirements. Nickel mesh is usually used as filter media and fuel cell electrode due to its corrosion-resistant and electric conductive feature.
Generally, nickel mesh can be divided into two types mainly based on the production method: woven nickel wire mesh (nickel knitted wire mesh/ nickel wire cloth) and expanded nickel mesh. Woven nickel mesh is produced from nickel wires with high-purity nickel wires by weave machines. Expanded nickel mesh is slit and stretched from a nickel sheet or coil.
Common woven methods for nickel wire mesh include plain weave, twill weave, and Dutch weave.
Plain weave is the most common also the simplest type of all woven fabric structure in which the weft alternates over and under the warp. Twill weave is also a common method in which filling threads pass over one and under two or more warp threads to give an appearance of diagonal lines. The wire in Dutch weave is interwoven but the warp wires are thicker than the shute wires. They are arranged very close together to form a zero-mesh structure.
Nickel meshes possess many unrivaled properties such as corrosion resistance, high conductivity, excellent stability in the molten salt medium, and high melting point which can reach up to 1455 degree centigrade. That’s why nickel mesh is widely applied in various industries.
Nickel wire meshes are commonly applied in the following fields:
Nickel 200 and nickel 201 refer to pure nickel grades. Nickel 200 (also known as UNS N02200) is a commercially pure wrought nickel (99.6%) with impressive mechanical properties and excellent corrosion resistance. Nickel 201 (also known as UNS N02201) is similar to Nickel 200 but has a lower carbon content which helps prevent high-temperature embrittlement and reduces hardness.
Nickel 200 and nickel 201 wire mesh are sorted by the nickel content in nickel content materials.
Similar to nickel 200 and nickel 201, N4 and N6 also refer to the nickel grades that are classified by the nickel content included. N6 nickel mesh equals nickel 200 wire mesh and N4 nickel mesh equals nickel 201 wire mesh.
The specification of woven nickel mesh mainly varies in mesh numbers per inch wire mesh and wire diameters.
Figuring out the mesh number is actually counting the number of openings in one linear inch of screen. This count is the mesh number. You may find 10 little square openings across one inch of the screen for a 10-mesh nickel screen. And the mesh size is 2.54 cm divided by 10, which is 2.54 mm. Similarly, for a 20-mesh screen, you will see 20 little square openings, and the mesh size is reduced to 1.27mm correspondingly.
The commonly used alkaline electrolyzer electrode is nickel mesh. According to a scientific study, electrolyzer performance is subject to nickel wire diameter, nickel mesh aperture, and electrode surface area.
When the ratio of nickel wire diameter and nickel mesh aperture size tends to 1:1, the electrode overpotential is the lowest. The electrode with a larger surface area has a lower overpotential.
The basic theory of applying nickel meshes in hydrogen production is to use nickel mesh as a catalyst to decompose water into hydrogen and oxygen through an electrochemical reaction. Compared with traditional precious metal catalysts (such as platinum, iridium, etc.), nickel has abundant reserves and can be provided at low price, which gives nickel mesh a clear cost advantage in hydrogen production.
At the same time, the nickel mesh shows good catalytic performance in electrochemical reactions and can highly improve the efficiency of hydrogen production by electrolyzing water.
Different mesh numbers of nickel mesh may be required for practical needs, either for laboratory or scale production. However, according to our customer orders, the commonly used nickel meshes are 40-mesh, 60-mesh, and 80-mesh screens.
An alkaline electrolyer usually uses nickel-based materials, such as pure nickel mesh, foam nickel, or nickel mesh sprayed with catalyst.
According to the nickel content in the raw materials, nickel meshes are classified into different grades like Ni200 and Ni201 nickel mesh.
Ni200, also known as UNS N02200, is a commercial pure nickel with a purity of 99.6%; Ni201 is also known as UNS N02201, with a purity of 99.9%. Ni200 nickel mesh is equivalent to N6 nickel mesh, Ni201 nickel mesh to N4 nickel mesh.
| Material | Nickel | Iron | Manganese | Carbon | Silicon | Sulfur | Copper |
| Ni200 | ≥ 99.6 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 0.15 | 0.35 | 0.01 | 0.25 |
| Ni201 | ≥ 99.9 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 0.02 | 0.35 | 0.01 | 0.25 |
Generally, nickel-based materials are usually used as electrodes, such as pure nickel mesh, foam nickel, or pure nickel mesh or foam cylindrical as the base to spray high-activity catalysts.
When selecting nickel mesh, consider factors like:
Nickel mesh can be purchased from industrial manufacturers, metalworking suppliers, and online platforms specializing in metal products. It is advisable to choose a reputable supplier who can provide specifications and professional support for the nickel mesh being sold.
Yes, nickel mesh is available in different grades based on the nickel content and intended application. Common grades include pure nickel mesh like nickel 200 nickel 201 mesh and nickel alloy mesh, which offer varying properties such as increased strength or enhanced reaction performance. It’s essential to select the right grade for your specific needs.
Its applications in batteries primarily stem from its excellent conductivity, corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength. These properties make it an ideal choice for components in rechargeable batteries, especially in electrodes and current collectors.
Nickel wire mesh enhances battery performance by providing a large surface area for electrochemical reactions, which facilitates better ion transport. This structure also helps in reducing the overall weight of the battery while maintaining mechanical integrity, leading to improved efficiency and energy density.
Nickel wire mesh is commonly used in various types of rechargeable batteries, including nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), and lithium-ion batteries. Its versatile properties make it suitable for applications in a wide range of battery technologies.
Yes, nickel wire mesh can be utilized in both anodes and cathodes within batteries. Depending on the battery design and chemistry, it can serve as a structural matrix for active materials in electrodes, improving conductivity and mechanical stability.
We typically conduct various quality control measures, including:
These measures help ensure that the nickel wire mesh meets the necessary standards for battery applications.
Basically, the price of nickel mesh varies depending on market supply and demand, materials, specifications and other factors, and the price fluctuates greatly. Generally speaking, the price of nickel mesh is between US$10,000 and US$30,000 per ton. Some high quality nickel mesh can even reach more than US$50,000 per ton.
Many factors should be taken into account when it comes to the calculation of nickel mesh price.
The first and also crucial factor is the price of nickel materials. Nickel price fluctuates with the market supply and demand which will finally affect the price of nickel meshes. Generally speaking, when nickel price rises, the price of nickel mesh will rise accordingly and vice versa.
Secondly, nickel mesh size, specifications, and surface treatments also play an important role in the mesh cost. Normally, nickel mesh with large sizes, specifications, and extra raney nickel surface treatment will be more expensive.
Another element that affects nickel mesh price is the manufacturing technique. For the production of nickel mesh, there may be weave, expanding, electroplating, welding, etc. The costs for different techniques vary and ultimately affect the final cost of nickel mesh.
For a more detailed analysis of how different factors affect the price of nickel meshes please check our article Nickel Wire Mesh Price: Factors, Trends, and Best Deals
Yes, nickel mesh is fully recyclable. Nickel is a valuable material, and recycling helps reduce environmental impact and production costs.
Nickel mesh is low-maintenance due to its corrosion resistance. Regular cleaning (e.g., with water or mild solvents) is usually sufficient to remove debris or contaminants.
Yes, nickel mesh can be customized in terms of:
Pore Size: To meet specific filtration or airflow needs.
Dimensions: Custom widths, lengths, and thicknesses.
Shape: Cut into specific shapes for unique applications.
Alloy Composition: Adjusted for enhanced properties like higher corrosion resistance or strength.
Raney Nickel is a kind of catalyst that is widely used in hydrogenation for the following reasons:
Read Introduction to Raney Nickel to get more information.
During the electrolysis of water, hydrogen (H₂) is produced at the cathode.
At the cathode, water molecules (H₂O) accept electrons (e⁻) and are reduced to form hydrogen gas (H₂).
Here is the reaction equation:
2H2O+2e−→H2(g)+2OH−
Hydrogen ions (H⁺) are released from water and combine with electrons to form hydrogen gas.
Pure nickel (Ni 200/201) is more corrosion-resistant, while alloys (e.g., Ni-Cr, Ni-Cu) offer enhanced strength or high-temperature performance.
Yes, in terms of weave type, thickness, hole shape (square, hexagonal), and edge treatment.
Pure nickel: up to ~600°C; alloys like Inconel can exceed 1000°C.
Yes, widely used in NiMH, lithium batteries, and fuel cells due to conductivity and oxidation resistance.
It resists rust but can oxidize or corrode in harsh acids (e.g., sulfuric acid) without proper alloying/coating.
Good resistance, but long-term exposure may require alloys like Monel (Ni-Cu).
Ultrasonic cleaning, acid pickling (e.g., dilute HNO₃), or mechanical brushing.
Use laser cutting, fine shears, or EDM for precision; file edges if needed. If you don’t have the tools, you may ask for the cutting service from our sales team. It’s free.
Keep dry, use anti-tarnish paper, or vacuum-seal for long-term storage.
Typically 1–4 weeks, depending on complexity and quantity.
Possible causes: poor welding, incorrect alloy selection, or excessive mechanical load.
Surface contamination (oxide layer) or plating wear—clean or re-plate as needed.
Yes! If you’re looking for OEM nickel mesh, here’s how you can proceed.
1 To get the right OEM nickel mesh, provide the following details:
Material: Pure nickel (Nickel 200/201) or nickel mesh with raney nickel coating?
Mesh Specifications:
Dimensions: Width, length, and thickness
Application: Filtration, battery electrodes, hydrogen production, etc.
2 Request a quote and samples.
3 Quality and compliance check regarding samples.
4 Place bulk order
Nickel Foam (Ni Foam) is a highly porous, three-dimensional (3D) material made primarily of nickel. It has a sponge-like structure with a large surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and good mechanical stability.
High Porosity (80-95%) – Allows for efficient fluid/gas diffusion.
Excellent Electrical Conductivity – Ideal for electrochemical applications.
Lightweight & Flexible – Can be shaped or compressed without breaking.
Good Thermal Conductivity – Useful in heat dissipation applications.
Corrosion Resistance – Stable in various chemical environments.
1 Primary Metal:
Nickel (Ni, 85–95%) – The main active component, providing catalytic sites for hydrogenation.
2 Secondary Metal (Optional, for enhanced properties):
Aluminum (Al, ~5–15%) – Initially present in the alloy; most is leached out during activation, leaving a porous structure.
Promoters (e.g., Cr, Fe, Mo, Zn, or Co) – Sometimes added to improve selectivity, stability, or activity.
3 Residual Components (After Activation):
Small amounts of remaining aluminum (1–5%) – Helps stabilize the structure.
Nickel 200 wire cloth (also called nickel woven mesh) is a finely woven grid made from pure nickel wire (Ni 200). It offers excellent corrosion resistance, high electrical conductivity, and thermal stability, making it ideal for filtration, shielding, and electrochemical applications.
Carbon-based: Carbon paper, carbon cloth (common in PEMFCs).
Metallic: Titanium, stainless steel, nickel (used in high-temperature fuel cells).
Composite: Coated meshes (e.g., gold-plated nickel for corrosion resistance).
Raney nickel is a porous, catalytic form of nickel widely used in hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions. It is produced by leaching aluminum out of a nickel-aluminum alloy, leaving a highly porous structure with high surface areas.
1. Physical Properties
Appearance: Gray, fine powder.
Porosity: High (due to leaching process, creating a large surface area).
Surface Area: ~80–100 m²/g (much higher than regular nickel powder).
Density: ~6–7 g/cm³ (varies based on alloy composition).
Pore Size: Typically in the nanometer to micrometer range.
2. Chemical Properties
Composition: Mostly nickel (87–97%), with residual aluminum (3–13%) and sometimes trace activators (e.g., chromium, molybdenum).
Catalytic Activity: Highly active for hydrogenation, especially in organic synthesis.
Pyrophoricity: Can be pyrophoric (ignites in air when dry) due to absorbed hydrogen and high reactivity.
Stability: Stable in alkaline conditions but corrodes in acidic media.
Raney nickel is a versatile, high-activity catalyst primarily used for hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions in industrial and laboratory settings. Its porous structure and large surface area make it ideal for processes requiring efficient hydrogen transfer.
1 Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL) or Current Collector
Function: Distributes reactant gases (H₂ and O₂) evenly across the catalyst layer while collecting electrical current.
2 Flow Field Plates (Alternative to Graphite/Metal)
Function: Channels hydrogen/air flow to the electrodes while conducting electricity.
3 Catalyst Support for Electrodes
Function: Provides a high-surface-area scaffold for catalyst nanoparticles (e.g., Pt, Ni, or Co).
4. Protective Layer in High-Temperature Fuel Cells
Function: Acts as a corrosion-resistant barrier in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs).
Raney nickel is a solid, sponge-like alloy catalyst composed primarily of nickel and aluminum (often with small amounts of other metals such as chromium or iron as modifiers).
Through an “activation” process using concentrated alkali solutions (e.g., NaOH), the aluminum in the alloy is dissolved away, leaving behind a highly active skeletal nickel structure with micro- and nano-scale pores. This unique porous architecture provides an extremely high surface area, enabling efficient adsorption of hydrogen and catalytic reaction.
Organic Synthesis and Fine Chemicals. This is the most extensive application area of Raney nickel, primarily used for various catalytic hydrogenation reduction reactions.
Food Industry
Analytical Chemistry and Laboratory Use
Thermal spraying is a coating process where melted or heated materials are sprayed onto a surface to form a coating.
The main advantage of thermal-sprayed Raney nickel is the ability to create a durable, high-performance catalytic surface that is seamlessly integrated into the geometry of an industrial component, offering design freedom, material efficiency, and enhanced longevity.
| Component | Typical Proportion | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | ≥ 89% by mass | The main active catalytic component. The final catalyst is typically around 85% nickel by mass. |
| Aluminium (Al) | 6 – 9% by mass (as an impurity in the final product) | A small amount of aluminium remains after the activation process. This residual aluminium is crucial as it helps to preserve the catalyst’s porous structure. |
| Other Elements | Small amounts, if added as “promoters” | Trace amounts of a third metal, such as zinc (Zn) or chromium (Cr), are sometimes added during manufacturing to enhance catalytic activity. |