A method for the production of SbM x nanoparticles is described that comprises the steps of reducing an antimony salt and optionally an alloying metal with a hydride in an anhydrous polar solvent, separating the solid product formed from the solution, preferably via centrifugation, and washing the product with water. M is an element selected from the group consisting of Sn, Ni, Cu, In, Al, Ge, Pb, Bi, Fe, Co, Ga, and 0 x < 2.