Supported nanoparticle composites are used as catalysts in a range of chemical transformations. Large-scale fabrication of these materials is important for their implementation, which requires more time- and energy-efficient methods. This work first presents a perspective on classical methods of nanoparticle production, then moves onto faster methods and culminates in the quickly growing field of carbothermal shock synthesis that enables the production of nanoparticles in seconds. After the perspective, a method for in situ production of nanoparticles on carbon nanofiber is presented based on the expansion of graphitic lattice and subsequent improved diffusion. Thereafter, a novel solvent-assisted microwave carbothermal shock is presented to afford metal nanoparticles in seconds. The solvent was found to produce nanoparticles up to 67% smaller than literature methods, thanks to altered cooling mechanics. The solvent also provides carbon fuel to produce carbon nanotubes in situ. Finally, the novel method is applied to the fabrication of solid-solution nanoparticles on metal pairs with both endothermic and exothermic alloy formation energies.
Outline of Studies:
Major: Chemistry
Educational Career:
B.S., 2016, University of Central Florida
M.S., 2019, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology
Committee in Charge:
Dr. Lei Zhai (chair)
Dr. Xiaohu Xia
Dr. Gang Chen
Dr. Karin Chumbimuni-Torres
Dr. Woohyoung Lee
Approved for distribution by Dr. Lei Zhai, Committee Chair, on February 7, 2023.
The public is welcome to attend.
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