A versatile method to prepare size- and shape-controlled copper nanocubes using an aqueous phase green synthesis. Issue 94 (26th September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Abeywickrama, Thulitha; Sreeramulu, Niharika Neerudu; Xu, Lan; Rathnayake, Hemali
• Is Part Of: RSC advances. Volume 6:Issue 94(2016)
• Page Start: 91949
• Page End: 91955
• Publication Date: 2016-09-26
• Subjects: Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540.5
• DOI: 10.1039/c6ra17037d
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2046-2069

Abstract

Abstract : A versatile, simple, and environmentally friendly method of preparing copper nanocubes with controlled morphology in aqueous solution at room temperature is demonstrated to make Cu nanocubes with sizes of 100 ± 35 nm. Abstract : We demonstrate a versatile, simple, and environmentally friendly method for preparing copper nanocubes with controlled morphology in aqueous solution at room temperature. Copper(ii )chloride is used as a precursor and the reduction is performed under an argon atmosphere with milder and non-toxic sodium borohydride in de-ionized water. The molar ratios of the precursor and the reducing agent, and sodium borohydride addition time play a key role in the preparation of copper nanocubes with an average edge length in the range of 100 ± 35 nm. With the addition of 20 w% poly(vinylpyrrolidone) prior to the addition of the reducing agent, well-dispersed PVP-capped copper nanocubes were also prepared in considerably good yield. The UV-visible absorption traces and transmission electron microscopy analysis were used to monitor the formation of copper nanocubes. The powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) reveals the packing of copper nanocrystals to cubic 3D structures.