In synthesis with a hydrophobic solvent and octadecylamine as a surface ligand. When methanol is added, the suspension becomes turbid, perhaps the nanoparticles agglomerate.
To precipitate and purify magic-size ZnTe nanoparticles, you can follow these steps:
Centrifuge the nanoparticle suspension: Centrifugation can help to separate the nanoparticles from any impurities or unreacted precursors. Adjust the centrifugation parameters (speed and duration) based on the size and density of the nanoparticles.
Wash the nanoparticles: Resuspend the nanoparticles in a suitable solvent (e.g., hexane) and wash them several times to remove any residual ligands, unreacted precursors, or impurities. Centrifuge the suspension after each wash step to separate the nanoparticles from the solvent.
Redisperse the nanoparticles: Resuspend the purified nanoparticles in a polar solvent (e.g., methanol) to facilitate their use in further applications. You can use sonication to disperse the nanoparticles in the solvent.
Characterize the nanoparticles: Use techniques such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and UV-Vis spectroscopy to confirm the size, morphology, and purity of the nanoparticles.
To prevent agglomeration of the nanoparticles during the purification process, you can try adding a small amount of a surfactant, such as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), to the solvent. The surfactant can help to stabilize the nanoparticles and prevent them from aggregating. Additionally, you can try adjusting the pH of the solvent or adding a small amount of salt to promote dispersion of the nanoparticles.
Centrifuge the nanoparticle suspension: Centrifugation can help to separate the nanoparticles from any impurities or unreacted precursors. Adjust the centrifugation parameters (speed and duration) based on the size and density of the nanoparticles.
Wash the nanoparticles: Resuspend the nanoparticles in a suitable solvent (e.g., hexane) and wash them several times to remove any residual ligands, unreacted precursors, or impurities. Centrifuge the suspension after each wash step to separate the nanoparticles from the solvent.
Redisperse the nanoparticles: Resuspend the purified nanoparticles in a polar solvent (e.g., methanol) to facilitate their use in further applications. You can use sonication to disperse the nanoparticles in the solvent.
Characterize the nanoparticles: Use techniques such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and UV-Vis spectroscopy to confirm the size, morphology, and purity of the nanoparticles.