We synthesized metal nanoparticles with using different reducing agents. I found that the smaller size and uniformity of metal nanoparticles by using NaBH4. I am trying to find out how the NaBH4 affects the size and uniformity as well as good catalytic properties of metal nanoparticles.
Nipa Roy
It's typically the other way around. Normally borohydride reduction isn't advised for producing PGM colloids as the entire system gets intractable boron in it (washing does not remove it) and the B acts as an excellent catalyst poison for many systems. I used hydrazine hydrate reduction (5 or 10% solutions) as the only products are N2 and water or alternative H2 reduction (water as the product).
Control of size (and shape) is typically though the nature and concentration of the precursors with factors such as temperature playing (usually) less of a role.
NaBH4 his a strong reducing agent, it promotes small particle sizes and thus, a higher surface area to volume ratio. The larger SA allows to have more active sites to carry the electrocatalytic reaction. A better dispersion promotes also more available active sites. The use of other reducing agents depends on the application. I like to use ascorbic acid, because a slow growth kinetics allows me to control the shape of nanoparticles. There are many strategies to increase the activity, the particle size is only one of multiple strategies. Best
Nipa Roy
You state: 'I figured out the problem from your comments'. Please share your secret with us on ResearchGate.
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