Synthesis and characterization of copper nanoparticles by chemical reduction method

Abstract

Copper nanoparticles were synthesized using chemical reduction method by reduction of copper sulphate as a metal precursor and sodium borohydride as reducing agent. The particles are characterized and assessed by UV-Vis spectrometer, SEM-EDS and particle size analysis. SEM-EDS and particle size analysis contributed to the analysis of size, shape and composition of copper nanoparticles. UV-Vis spectrometer contributed to analysis of optical properties of the nanoparticles which showed a 550nm and 800nm copper band. The SEM images are also observed and found to be in agreement with the UV-Vis result, confirming the formation of metallic copper nanoparticles. The average particle size at room temperature was less than 16nm. The sizes of the nanoparticles are more controllable by the chemical reduction method.