Stabilization of mono-and bimetallic nanoparticles in ionic liquids

摘要

Unlike traditional solvents, ionic liquids (ILs) can be used to generate metallic NPs in the absence of any additive. Indeed, ILs can dissolve organometallic (OM) precursors, which readily form metallic NPs by decomposition (or reduction) under dihydrogen. This process provides suspensions of metallic NPs, with accurate size control and high stability. In this work, we investigate the mechanisms responsible for the stabilization of nanoparticles in ionic liquids. Our results indicate that mass transport limitation can contribute to the stabiliezation of small NPs. We also demonstrate that this approach is capable to yield NPs of most metals, provided that adequate OM precursors are found. Furthermore, upon mixing two OM precursors in the same IL, this approach is suited to form bimetallic NPs. We extend this synthesis to new systems. Hence, this approach could open a new, general and low-cost route to form mono- and bimetallic NPs, with accurate size and structure control.