Abstract
Instant reactions of Ag(I) on nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) were visualized with spherical-aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (Cs-STEM) integrated with X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy. In particular, the rapid growth of pure silver nanoparticles on nZVI was captured with high-resolution STEM imaging. Dissolved silver ions are attracted to the negatively charged iron nanoparticles and quickly reduced to metallic silver on the defective and electron-rich iron surface. Small (∼1–2 nm) and highly reactive silver nanoparticles are formed along the long chains of nZVI. Results reinforce the applications of nZVI for rapid enrichment, complete separation, and recovery of precious metals such as Au and Ag from trace-level sources such as wastewater and demonstrate the potential of analytical electron microscopy for mapping pollutant reactions on the surface of nanoparticles.
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.
