DESCRIPTION:

This invention describes a new technology that allow highly effective processing of core-shell types of metal and alloy nanoparticles. The working principles involve thermally-driven minimization of surface free energy of the particles at elevated temperatures under which the particles undergo coalescence/growth and encapsulation/re-encapsulation, as well as annealing. Because of its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the technology is versatile for utilizing nanoparticles (1-100 nm) for a wide range of applications, including fuel cell catalysts, chemical sensing materials and biological labeling materials.

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS:

Fuel cell catalysts, chemical sensing materials and biological labeling materials.

ADVANTAGES:

In comparison with other synthetic methods for producing nanoparticles of different sizes by controlling synthetic precursor ratios or in-situ reduction of metal precursors in the presence of surfactants or polymers, our technology offers a simple, cost-effective and reproducible way for processing nanoparticles towards controled sizes and high monodispersity. There is also a significant reduction of solvent and labor consumption. While existing technologies are mostly practiced in small or laboratory scales, our new technology can potentially be applied to large or industrial scale. The technology can also be expanded to many different metals, metal oxides, and alloys, which are very important for preparing nanoparticle catalysts.

DISADVANTAGES:

None

PATENT STATUS:

Patent Pending.