A general strategy for synthesis of metal nanoparticles by a solid-state redox route under ambient conditions

Abstract

A general strategy has been developed to synthesize metal nanoparticles by solid-state redox reaction under ambient conditions. A series of metallic nanoparticles, such as Ni, Fe, Sn, Co nanoparticles, and bimetallic NiCo nanoparticles were prepared by using inexpensive metal salts and sodium borohydride (NaBH₄). The obtained Ni nanoparticles showed excellent catalytic activity toward the reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol. The protocol creates a novel and facile route for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles.