Investigation of Silver Nanoparticles Formation Kinetics During Reduction of Silver Nitrate with Sodium Citrate

Abstract

In the present research the formation kinetics of silver nanoparticles during synthesis of silver colloidal solution (silver nitrate reduction with sodium citrate) was investigated. The formation of silver nanoparticles was monitored with optical spectrophotometer measuring optical absorbance spectra. Optical spectra were taken after the reducing agent was introduced to the silver salt solution (1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 45, 60, 120 min). Approximating spectra with Gaussian function statistical parameters (surface plasmon resonance position, full width at half maximum, intensity) were found. Theoretical calculations employing software “MiePlot v. 3.4” which is based on Mie scattering theory was done. Comparison of theoretical and experimental results has shown that the size of nanoparticles present in the solution varies in the range of 45 nm – 80 nm. Scanning electron microscope was employed for direct determination of the nanoparticle size. The time stability of colloidal solution was investigated.