Continuous flow synthesis of plasmonic magnesium nanoparticles with tunable optical properties from grignard precursors

Abstract

Nanoscale magnesium is an earth-abundant, inexpensive material that can efficiently utilize the energy of light via localized surface plasmon resonances. In this work, the continuous flow synthesis of plasmonic Mg nanoparticles with exquisite size control and high reaction yields is demonstrated thanks to the combination of fast mixing achieved in flow reactors and the use of highly reactive and air-sensitive Grignard precursors. The size distribution is controlled by tuning the mean residence time and adjusting the precursor concentration. A systematic study reveals that the reactivities of Grignard compounds toward reduction into plasmonic Mg are controlled by both electronic and steric factors defined by the structure of the organic substituent of the Grignard reagent. This work demonstrates the continuous, controllable, and tuneable manufacturing of plasmonic Mg nanoparticles with a great potential in light-harvesting applications.