Au1−xCux colloidal nanoparticles synthesized via a one-pot approach: understanding the temperature effect on the Au : Cu ratio

摘要: Gold–copper nanoparticles (Au1−xCux NPs) have been reported as a versatile system to study various aspects related the colloidal synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles. In this work, Au1−xCux NPs are synthesized via one pot approach using equimolar amounts Au and Cu. Different compositions obtained by changing reaction temperature. By taking aliquots at crucial stages combining several techniques, such elemental analysis, X-ray diffraction photoelectron spectroscopy, it was possible shed light on mechanism: formation occurs low temperature, then higher temperature Cu content in NPs. parallel formation, results energy-dispersive spectroscopy analyses carried out scanning transmission electron microscopy mode suggest Cu-rich phase early synthesis. Such phase, not detectable diffraction, acts reservoir species that slowly released form alloy through digestive ripening-like process. The annealing time affect final Au : Cu ratio but had no significant effect size particles, which for all is approximately 14 nm.