Title
Potential of microfluidic reactors in the biosynthesis of metal-based nanoparticles
Code
SP2020/74
Summary
The subject of the research is the realization of microfluidic biosynthesis of selected metal nanoparticles (e.g. Au, Ag) or metal-based nanoparticles (e.g. ZnO) and comparison of character of nanoparticles prepared by batch- and flow-synthesis. The influence of process parameters on the character of nanoparticles will be studied and we will also focus on optimization of synthesis and their repeatability. The influence of chip geometry (simple meander, ZigZag or 3D) on nanoparticle properties, presence of oil phase, etc. will be studied. Plant extracts and metal precursors will be used for green nanoparticle synthesis. Biosynthesized nanoparticles will be characterized by available analytical and imaging techniques. The main method for characterization of particle size and shape distribution will be scanning electron microscopy with detection of transmitted electrons and X-ray diffraction. The prepared nanoparticles will be anchored e.g. on polymer fibers (polycaprolactone) and the application potential of the combined materials will be studied e.g. in disinfection.
With regard to the research activities of the project, the work schedule can be defined as follows:
1/4 - realization of tests of synthesis of Au, Ag in batch layout and comparison with microfluidic synthesis, monitoring of influence of precursor concentration and flow rate on nanoparticle character,
2/4 - on the basis of reaction kinetics the process parameters optimization will be proposed, influence of UV radiation on flow synthesis will be observed
3/4 - oil drop microfluidics - monitoring the effect of the presence of oil phase or surfactant on the character of nanoparticles
4/4 - microfluidic preparation of ZnO nanoparticles from various precursors - pilot study
Start year
2020
End year
2020
Provider
Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports
Category
SGS
Type
Specifický výzkum VŠB-TUO