Silver Nanoparticle Synthesis via Photochemical Reduction with Sodium Citrate

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Photochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) possess unique optical and electronic properties.
• Traditional synthesis methods can be complex or environmentally hazardous.
• Developing efficient and controlled synthesis routes for AgNPs is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, efficient, and photoactivated method for synthesizing silver nanoparticles.
• To investigate the influence of key synthesis parameters (TSC concentration, irradiation time, UV intensity) on AgNP formation.
• To establish a method for evaluating AgNP size using Mie theory.

Main Methods:

• Photoassisted synthesis of AgNPs using thiosemicarbazide (TSC) as a reducing and stabilizing agent.
• Controlled UV irradiation to activate the synthesis.
• Characterization using UV-VIS spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
• Particle size analysis based on Mie theory and UV-Vis spectral data.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of silver nanoparticles via a photoactivated process.
• Demonstrated control over AgNP formation by adjusting synthesis parameters.
• Validated the 'on-demand' synthesis capability by premixing reagents and activating with UV light.
• Long-term stability of synthesized AgNPs was monitored over 390 days.

Conclusions:

• The developed photoassisted method provides a simple, efficient, and controllable route for AgNP synthesis.
• TSC acts as an effective reducing and stabilizing agent in this photochemical process.
• The synthesis can be readily activated by UV light, enabling on-demand production.
• Mie theory offers a viable approach for estimating AgNP size from spectral data.