A versatile method to prepare size- and shape-controlled copper nanocubes using an aqueous phase green synthesis

Abstract

We demonstrate a versatile, simple, and environmentally friendly method for preparing copper nanocubes with controlled morphology in aqueous solution at room temperature. Copper(II)chloride is used as a precursor and the reduction is performed under an argon atmosphere with milder and non-toxic sodium borohydride in de-ionized water. The molar ratios of the precursor and the reducing agent, and sodium borohydride addition time play a key role in the preparation of copper nanocubes with an average edge length in the range of 100 ± 35 nm. With the addition of 20 w% poly(vinylpyrrolidone) prior to the addition of the reducing agent, well-dispersed PVP-capped copper nanocubes were also prepared in considerably good yield. The UV-visible absorption traces and transmission electron microscopy analysis were used to monitor the formation of copper nanocubes. The powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) reveals the packing of copper nanocrystals to cubic 3D structures.