Continuous-Mode Laser Ablation at the Solid–Liquid Interface of Pelletized Low-Cost Materials for the Production of Luminescent Silicon Carbide Nanocrystals

Abstract

We report on the fabrication of silicon carbide (SiC) nanocrystals using a continuous scanning mode laser for the ablation of pelletized SiC microparticles. As a major advantage, we propose the in situ generation and collection of freestanding nanoparticles in an ethanol liquid medium and the use of cost-effective SiC targets in comparison with those commercially available or synthesized after multiple steps. The SiC NPs exhibit luminescent properties under UV exposure and excellent colloidal stability for extended periods of time. The influence of a more oxidizing solvent such as water is also evaluated as the collecting medium.