Copper nanoparticles synthesized by hydroxyl ion assisted alcohol reduction for conducting ink

Abstract

A hydroxyl ion assisted alcohol reduction method has been applied for the preparation of copper nanoparticles with an average diameter of 10.5 nm and narrow size distribution. The addition of specific amounts of hydroxyl ions to the alcoholic solution is the key to enhance the reducing potential of alcohols to obtain metal copper from their salts even with 1-butanol. The synthesis of copper metal was realized through intermediate steps corresponding to the formation of copper oxides (CuO and Cu2O). The obtained nanoparticles were coated with necessary surfactants and dispersed in organic solvent such as dodecane to prepare conducting ink. Samples annealed at 250 °C in nitrogen and vacuum atmosphere showed electrical resistivity of 26 and 35 µΩ cm, respectively.