Synthesis of salicylaldehyde Schiff base modified Cu nanocrystals by thermal treatment in liquid paraffin

► Copper nanocrystals are successfully synthesized via thermal treatment in paraffin. ► The cuboid morphology of the nanocopper is controlled by using salicylaldehyde Schiff base as capping agent. ► Copper nanocrystals obtained by this method are not oxidized after exposure to air for one year.