Intermetallic nanoparticles with controlled size and structure can be synthesized by a novel Np-KCl matrix method (Np stands for nanoparticle). In this method, the Np-KCl assembly is formed in a one pot reduction in THF at room temperature. KCl is an insoluble by-product of the reaction and serves as a matrix that traps the nanoparticles to avoid particle agglomeration and to control the coalescence of nanoparticles during thermal annealing up to 600 oC. By varying the mole ratio of metal precursors and KCl, as well as the time and  temperature of annealing, the final particle sizes and crystalline order can be independently controlled. This method avoids the thermal decomposition of long chain surfactants, which are frequently used in nanoparticle synthesis. After thermal processing, these nanoparticles can be released from the KCl matrix and transferred in an ethylene glycol-water solution to support materials forming a uniform Np-support assembly. A detailed study of the synthesis of 4 nm diameter ordered intermetallic Pt3Fe nanoparticles using this Np-KCl method is provided as an example of what is, in fact, a rather generally applicable method.

Surfactantless method to synthesize nanoparticle catalysts with desired size and structure

244th National Meeting (2012)

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