Effects of Operating Parameters on the Structural Properties of Silver Particles Synthesized by Chemical Reduction Using Poly(N-Vinylpyrrolidone)

Abstract

In this study we report the preparation and characterization of fine silver microparticles by simple chemical reduction of silver nitrate using two types of bases and poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) as protective agent. The influence of silver nitrate concentration and the nature and concentration of bases, on the properties of the silver microparticles was investigated. The structural characteristics of microparticles were determined using x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and particle distribution analysis. It was noticed that the structure and the shape of silver microparticles depend on the base nature and the concentration of silver nitrate added to the base. It was also noted the absence of agglomerates in the powder prepared with PVP. This polymer not only serves as both coordinating agent and stabilizing one, but also plays an important role in controlling the size and shape of metal particles.

Keywords:

• chemical reduction
• PVP
• silver particles
• structural properties