Synthesis and Characterization of Copper Nanoparticles: A Laboratory Experiment for Undergraduate Physical Chemistry
Jonathan Batey, Deborah Okyere, Sarah York, Feng Wang, Jingyi Chen
TL;DR
This paper introduces a lab experiment for undergraduates to learn about making and studying copper nanoparticles, focusing on sustainability and nanochemistry.
Contribution
The paper presents a novel, integrated lab experiment combining synthesis, analysis, and discussion for teaching nanochemistry to undergraduates.
Findings
Students synthesized copper nanoparticles and studied their plasmonic properties and oxidation effects.
Quantitative analysis of copper-ammonia complexes was conducted using crystal field theory.
Group discussions and DFT calculations enhanced understanding of nanoparticle chemistry.
Abstract
Nonprecious metal nanoparticles have been the subject of intensive research, due to their potential applications in promoting sustainability. This integrated laboratory experiment is designed to provide undergraduate students with hands-on experience in synthesizing and characterizing nonprecious metal nanoparticles, specifically copper nanoparticles. The experiment consists of three sections, each tailored to teach a unique aspect of nanochemistry. Section 1 focuses on the air-free synthesis of copper nanoparticles using a solution-based method with an emphasis on understanding their plasmonic properties and how oxidation impacts them. Section 2 explores the quantitative analysis of copper, where students apply crystal field theory to understand the formation of copper-ammonia complexes and their corresponding colors. Section 3 features group presentations and discussions in which…
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Taxonomy
TopicsNanotechnology research and applications · Various Chemistry Research Topics · Chemistry and Chemical Engineering