The unique optical, magnetic and electronic properties of copper-based nanomaterials have resulted in their large scale production and a wide variety of applications. Metallic copper nanoparticles which often have a thin surface oxide layer, becomes more oxidized over time under ambient environmental conditions. In this study, we characterized three different types of copper-based nanoparticle (NP) samples designated as Cu(new) NPs, Cu(aged) NPs and CuO NPs that differ in the level of oxidation. The solution phase behavior of these samples was investigated as a function of pH and in the presence and absence of common, complexing organic acids (citric and oxalic acid) which showed interesting differences. In particular, Cu(aged) NPs exhibit unique differences in terms of oxide phases that are present, oxide phases that form and surface adsorption properties. Overall, the current study provides some insights into the impacts of nanoparticle aging and how the physicochemical characteristics and reactivity of nanomaterials can change.

Environmental implications of nanoparticle aging in the processing and fate of copper based nanomaterials

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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