Synthesis of low-melting-point metallic nanoparticles with an ultrasonic nanoemulsion method

A one-step, economical nanoemulsion method has been introduced to synthesize low-melting-point metallic nanoparticles. This nanoemulsion technique exploits the extremely high shear rates generated by the ultrasonic agitation and the relatively large viscosity of the continuous phase – polyalphaolefin (PAO), to rupture the molten metal down to diameter below 100 nm. Field’s metal nanoparticles and Indium nanoparticles of respective average diameters of 15 nm and 30 nm have been obtained. The nanoparticles size and shape are determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Their phase transition behavior is examined using a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). It is found that these nanoparticles dispersed in PAO can undergo reversible, melting–freezing phase transition, and exhibit a relatively large hysteresis. The experimental results suggest that the nanoemulsion method is a viable route for mass production of low-melting nanoparticles.

Research highlights► A one–step nanoemulsion method has been developed to synthesize low–melting-point metallic nanoparticles. ► Metal nanoparticles of diameters below 30 nm have been obtained. ► A relatively large melting–freezing hysteresis has been observed in nanoparticles dispersed in PAO.