Using Response Surface Methodology in Synthesis of Ultrafine Copper Nanoparticles by Electrolysis

Abstract

Electrolysis is a method used for producing copper (Cu) nanoparticles at faster rate and at low cost in ambient conditions. The property of Cu nanoparticles prepared by electrolysis depends on their process parameters. The influence of selected process parameters such as copper sulfate (CuSo4) concentration, electrode gap and electrode potential difference on particle size was investigated. To optimize these parameters response surface methodology (RSM) was used. Cu nanoparticles prepared by electrolysis were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). After reviewing the results of analysis of variance (ANOVA), mathematical equation was created and optimized parameters for producing Cu nanoparticles were determined. The results confirm that the average size of Cu particle at the optimum condition was found to be 17[Formula: see text]nm and they are hexagonal in shape.