Size and Structure Control of Si Nanoparticles by Laser Ablation in Different Liquid Media and Further Centrifugation Classification

Abstract

Si nanoparticles are synthesized through the “green” (noncontamination) laser ablation method. The size control can be realized by choosing different liquid media. Through comparison of the samples acquired in different liquid media, it is found that ultrafine and well-dispersed Si nanoparticles can be prepared in pure ethanol. Furthermore, such obtained colloid can be further classified by the centrifugation method to obtain certain sized Si nanoparticles. Liquid media also have an effect on the microstructure of the obtained Si nanoparticles. The influence of laser fluence on the mean size of Si nanoparticles is also investigated. As laser fluence increased, the mean size decreased, which is explained in detail. This investigation is crucial in understanding the role of liquid media in the nanoparticles formation process during laser ablation and also has important potential applications in some areas where certain sized Si nanoparticles are needed.