Synthesis of noble metallic nanoparticles, in general, and silver nanoparticles (SNPs), in particular, currently are of special interest. In the present paper, an overview of the enhanced properties of SNPs and consequential applications of SNPs are discussed. Common synthesis methods and their comparison with the microemulsion technology, particularly advantages of SNPs formation with microemulsion technology, are discussed. A brief overview of the basics of microemulsion technology for nanoparticles formation is also presented. The complete topical review of microemulsion synthesis technique used to date for the generation of SNPs is discussed comprehensively. Control parameters have been explicated for influencing size, size uniformity, and stability aspects of the SNPs reported in the literature, allowing a tailored synthesis for specific application. Recent modifications made on the synthesis of SNPs to obtain monodisperse, high yield and stability are also discussed. Lastly, some future trends and perspectives in these research areas are outlined.

No abstract

No abstract

Silver nanoparticles, with controlled sizes, are synthesized by chemical reduction of silver nitrate with sodium borohydride reducing agent by microemulsion method. To obtain small and monodisperse particles, as-synthesized Ag nanoparticles are readily tuned by varying the water-to-surfactant mole ratio, ω (most crucial operating parameter), and the type of reducing agent. Superior nanoparticles are obtained at intermediate ω (ω = 3). When hydrazine hydrate is used as reducing agent, further superior nanoparticles are obtained with a calculated surface area of 9.76 × 108 mm2/g and hence are chosen for further nanocatalyst synthesis by proper deposition of the same on alumina support. The catalyst is analyzed with UV–visible spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques to confirm the presence of metallic silver. The synthesized catalyst can be conveniently recovered from the reaction system, leading to easy monitoring of the catalytic reaction by spectroscopic methods. Accordingly, reduction of model nitro aromatic compounds, viz., 4-nitrophenol and 4-nitroaniline, are studied. Gradual disappearance of the peak corresponding to nitro compounds reveals the degradation of nitro compounds with time. Furthermore, the appearance and increase of new peaks with time reveal the progressive formation of respective products.

No abstract

No abstract

Mg nanocatalyst is successfully synthesized in the present study using wet chemical method via the chemical reduction of magnesium sulfate and a reducing agent (sodium borohydride). Size/size distribution characterization is performed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Subsequently, 4-chlorophenol compound reduction is systematically studied with Mg catalyst. An ultravioletÀvisible light (UVÀvis) spectrophotometer is used to study the absorption spectra of in situ reduction reaction with time. Gradual disappearance of the peak corresponding to chloro compounds reveals the degradation of chloro compounds with time. Furthermore, the appearance of a new peak reveals the formation of a respective product (phenol). MgÀAg bimetallic nanocatalyst is also synthesized via an equivalent chemical method and analogous reduction is performed with the catalyst. The performance of the MgÀAg bimetallic catalyst is compared with that of the Mg nanocatalyst. Superior dechlorination percentage is observed with the MgÀAg bimetallic nanocatalyst.

No abstract