Stein M., Kruis F.E.
University of Duisburg-Essen, DE
Keywords: particle, scale up, synthesis
Metal nanoparticles are used in numerous products and applications to enhance their performance or efficiency. Different gas phase synthesis routes are known to form metal nanoparticles, however only few are capable for scaling-up in terms of production rate. Most processes are limited due to their energy efficiency, drastically increasing costs or engineering problems. A gas phase synthesis process has been developed, which produces pure metal nanoparticles with high production rates, focusing on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. The basic process is the thermal emission by an atmospheric transferred arc, which is ignited between a tungsten cathode and a metal anode. Particles are formed by nucleation and coagulation. Metal nanopowders consisting of specific particle sizes can be produced. The particle size and production rate are adjusted by the process parameters, such as applied electrode power or carrier gas composition. Particle characterization and validation is done amongst others by various online measurement devices. Pure metal nanoparticles (Cu, Ag, Zn, Al, Au) in the size range from 20 nm to 220 nm are produced by the process. Production rates up to 5 kg/day are reachable, however it is strongly material dependent. Specific power consumptions of up to 20 kWh/ kg have been reached.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Advanced Materials: TechConnect Briefs 2015
Published: June 14, 2015
Pages: 203 - 206
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Nanoparticle Synthesis & Applications
ISBN: 978-1-4987-4727-1