I have synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles using published methods for several times, but could not get the same size as reported in the paper using zetasizer. Metal precursor used was copper nitrate (0.02M), reducing agent was sodium borohydride (0.02M). Briefly, reducing agent as heated to 100degC then metal precursor was added dropwise, then the solution was heated for 30 minutes. Product formed was centrifuged and washed 2 times with water, then product was checked with UV-Vis and Zetasizer. The size is always larger than 100nm, but the reported size is less than 30nm. Repeated few times but still the same. Anyone has any suggestions?
Chian Ying Teo
According to your reaction, metal nanoparticles are first obtained, and then they are oxidized from the outside to copper oxide. You need to decide with what surface layer, thick or thin, you need to obtain nanoparticles. If with a thick layer, they will be large. If with a thin layer, they will be smaller. Then the process of obtaining must be shortened in time, temperature and the reaction must be done in a nitrogen, argon environment.
Chian Ying Teo
Hi !
I think with all other methodological optimizations you also need to check stabilizers. One likely reason you’re consistently seeing >100 nm sizes via DLS is aggregation may be due to a lack of capping/stabilizing agents. To achieve smaller size of CuO NPs, try adding a surfactant or polymer capping agent (e.g., gelatin, citrate, PVP) during or immediately after reduction it would precisely control NaBH₄/Cu²⁺ ratio, other than this i suggest- optimize temperature, stirring rate, and quench rapidly—this stabilizes nuclei and limits growth/agglomeration.
May be you can overcome your problem also attaching a reference for clearing the concepts: DOI 10.1007/s11671-009-9264-3 & Article SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF COPPER OXIDE NANOPARTICLES...
I will be excited to discuss or to know your results further.
you may need to go for centrifugation for 20mins 15000rpm, there may be chances that particles may be exposed to sunlight, chances of agglomeration.
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