Copper Chloride-mediated Synthesis of Silver Nanowires

Introduction Owing to the high electrical and thermal conductivity of bulk silver, the synthesis of Ag nanowires has been and continues to be an area of active research. The properties and applications of the nanostructures are determined by the shape, size, structure, and composition of the nanostructures. The presence of various ions has been shown to influence the shape and size of metallic nanostructures produced via the polyol method. Technology description Younan Xia’s laboratory has invented a rapid and facile method for the synthesis of Ag nanowires. These wires are prepared via a polyol reduction method and are relatively uniform in shape and size. The wires have a pentagonal cross-section and relatively long lengths (10 to 50 um). Specifically, silver nitrate is reduced by heated ethylene glycol in the presence of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and copper chloride. The wires are produced in approximately one hour, with the synthesis being performed in disposable glass vials and using only pipettes to deliver the reagents. Business Opportunity The global market for nanoparticles used in electronic, magnetic, and optoelectronic applications increased from $499.7 million in 2006 to an estimated $521.9 million in 2007. It should reach $1.1 billion by 2012, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.5%. Intellectual property position This technology is available for licensing. Related Publication(s)
Korte KE, Skrabalak SE & Xia Y, Rapid synthesis of silver nanowires through a CuCl- or CuCl2-mediated polyol process, J. Mater. Chem., 2008, 18, 437 – 441. For more information on this technology contact:
Bolong Cao, Ph.D. Licensing Officer, Invention Licensing [email protected] 206-685-9348

Type of Offer: Licensing



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