Abstract
Abstract In this article, we are reporting the catalytic activity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) dispersed in a novel eco-friendly Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES; choline chloride and urea) at room temperature. A low energy sputter deposition method is employed to synthesize AuNPs on the DES surface. This is a simple, economical and clean method for producing monodisperse gold nanoparticles by a self-limited growth mechanism. Detailed Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS), UV–Vis and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) investigations show the formation of spherical AuNPs of 5 nm in diameter. Moreover, these particles have a strong tendency to self-assemble at the DES surface as well as into the bulk. This is a new addition to a novel generation of gold based catalysts. The catalytic activity of Au nanoparticles in DES is revealed quantitatively by analyzing the apparent conversion reaction rate constant k app of para-nitrophenol to para-aminophenol in the presence of sodium borohydride. Catalytic activity reported in the present article is much faster (k app = 0.34 s –1) than the rate reported earlier (k app = 0.030 min –1) by Chirea et al. for gold nanowire networks [Langmuir, 2011, 27, 3906]. In agreement with the literature, we explain the higher catalytic activity in terms of a larger surface area of AuNPs in a non-self-assembled state.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
