Synthesis of inorganic, polymer, and hybrid nanoparticles using ultrasound #15

Abstract

In this chapter, an attempt has been made to explain the role of ultrasonication in the synthesis of pure nanoparticles and nanoparticle-loaded polymers (i.e., hybrid). Ultrasound acts as an opportune method to synthesize metal, metal oxide nanoparticles, and hybrids with unique properties which are highly desirable for many applications. Extraordinary conditions such as temperature, pressure, heating, and cooling rates during the acoustic cavitation provide access to the range of chemical reaction conditions. These conditions generate the nanoparticles/hybrids with extremely large surface-to-volume ratio and specific surface area due to non-equilibrium conditions of cavitation interface. In this present chapter, new developments in ultrasound-assisted synthesis of inorganic nanomaterials and polymer-based hybrids had been discussed. In this chapter, the use of ultrasound atomization process for the production of the nanomaterials which are used in solar cells and electronics application was also discussed. The chapter also reports about the formation of the pigment dispersion which was an energy-intensive process when compared to planetary ball milling. Finally, the comparison of the acoustic cavitation and hydrodynamic cavitation was reported for nano-calcite production.