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Exploring the crystallization preference for NaCl in solvent mixtures by Nanoprecipitation
Chenglong Han1, Xingfu Tao1,2, Fei Peng1
1State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, China.
The Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters
|June 2, 2025
Summary
Solvent mixtures control sodium chloride nanoparticle shape by altering crystal facet ratios. This provides a novel mechanism for tuning ionic nanoparticle morphology for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Nanoprecipitation enables synthesis of nanoparticles with controlled morphology and crystallographic facets.
- Sodium chloride (NaCl) is a model system for studying solvent effects in nanoprecipitation.
- Understanding solvent influence is crucial for tailoring nanoparticle properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the impact of protic and aprotic solvents on NaCl nanoparticle morphology and facet distribution.
- Explore the relationship between solvent composition and crystal facet evolution.
- Provide insights into controlling ionic nanoparticle formation.
Main Methods:
- Experimental nanoprecipitation of NaCl nanoparticles using varying solvent mixtures (isopropanol/tetrahydrofuran).
- Characterization of nanoparticle morphology and facet ratios.
- Theoretical simulations including crystal formation free energy calculations.
Main Results:
- Solvent mixtures significantly alter the {110}/{100} facet ratio, driving morphology changes.
- Observed morphology transitions include cubes, hexapods, and rhombic dodecahedra.
- Protic solvent efficacy for stabilizing {110} facets follows a specific order: ethanol > n-propanol > isopropanol > n-butanol > n-pentanol.
Conclusions:
- Solvent composition is a key factor in directing NaCl nanoparticle morphology and facet development.
- A novel facet evolution mechanism was identified, driven by solvent-specific stabilization.
- Findings offer new strategies for designing and synthesizing functional ionic nanoparticles.
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