Discipline:
Subcategory: Nanoscience
Maurice Roots - Hampton University
Co-Author(s): Peter Njoki, Hampton University, Hampton, VA
Silver nanoparticles can be synthesized in a number of ways ranging from green synthesis to microwave irradiation using various reducing and capping agents. The properties of nano-scale silver include; antimicrobial, high electrical conductivity, thermally resistant, and optically responsive. Our work focuses on the size controlled synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using microwave heating method to produce initial seeds of Ag NPs. Aqueous Ag NPs were prepared using silver nitrate, trisodium citrate and tannic acid. This presentation describes results of microwave-assisted irradiation aimed at developing the ability to control the size of aqueous Ag NPs. Compared to conventional means of heating, microwave irradiation provides shorter reaction times and better reproducibility, thereby saving time and energy. The Ag NPs were characterized for their optical properties with UV-Vis Spectroscopy. Transmission Electron Microscopy was used for morphology and size determination. Further work will involve refinement of the microwave synthesis method for eventual seeded growth of the initial seeds.
Funder Acknowledgement(s): Funding provided by the National Science Foundation under cooperative agreement number HRD - 1238838
Faculty Advisor: Peter Njoki, peter.njoki@hamptonu.edu
Role: The results of this research were formed by a collaborative effort of myself and my advisor.