Synthesis and Characterization of Noble Au Nanoparticle Suspensions Obtained by Electrical Explosion of Wires in Deionized Water

Abstract

We report a novel single-step method for preparing noble Au nanoparticles by the electrical explosion of wires (EEW) in deionized (DI) water without any additives. The morphologies and compositions of the as-prepared powders were observed by field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The sizes and lattice images of the particles were analyzed using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The dispersion properties of the nanoparticles in DI water were evaluated using sedimentation photographs, a Turbiscan device, and zeta-potential measurements. The nanoparticles were typically spherical with a particle size of approximately 150 nm, depending on the explosion conditions. The as-prepared Au particles were not contaminated in the DI water during evaporation and condensation of the explosion process and exhibited extremely good crystallinity. The dispersion of Au nanoparticles obtained using 0.1 mm wire was stable for six months in DI water at both room temperature and at 40 degrees C.