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Category: nanotechnology

BSA 10-03: Synthesis and Treatment of Metal Monolayer Electrocatalyst Particles

BNL Reference Number: BSA 10-03

Patent Status: PCT filed on March 24, 2011

Summary

This electrochemical cell can be used to fabricate nanoparticles coated with an atomically thin layer of noble metal. It is based on the rotating cylinder electrode configuration. A cylinder electrode is immersed in a cell with a slurry of nanoparticles. On rotation, the nanoparticles collide with the cylinder and become charged. In one example use, copper is plated onto the nanoparticles. The excess copper solution is then rinsed away, a suspension is created by adding an acid, and platinum ions in the solution displace the copper, forming an atomically thin coating.

Description

The cylinder electrode, here the cathode, is immersed in a cell with a slurry of nanoparticles. On rotation, the nanoparticles collide with the cylinder and become charged. This facilitates the deposition of monolayers of copper or other metals onto their surface. A platinum anode may be located in the same cell or separated from the slurry. In one example use, copper is plated onto the nanoparticles by underpotential deposition. The excess copper solution is then rinsed away, a suspension is created by adding an acid, and platinum ions in the solution displace the copper, forming an atomically thin coating.

Have Questions?

For more information about this technology, contact Kimberley Elcess, (631) 344-4151.