Fabrication of silver nanoparticles through reduction by ε-caprolactam without using protecting agent

Abstract

ε-Caprolactam (CL) was used as a multifunctional medium to synthesize silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). In this method, CL played three key roles including reducing agent, protecting agent and solvent. The identity of the solid substance generated in molten CL, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), was verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The particle size of the as-synthesized Ag NPs was uniform and less than 15 nm. Coordination of CL with silver ions/atoms and moderate reduction contributed together to the resultant nanosized silver particles.