Multi-electrode Spark Discharge Generator of Composite Nanoparticles

Abstract

This article presents the development of a multielectrode spark discharge generator designed to produce multicomponent nanoparticles with precise control over the elemental ratios. This capability is achieved through the creation of two independent spark discharges positioned extremely close to one another, facilitating improved mixing of materials. Both theoretical and experimental studies demonstrate that this new generator exhibits similarities with its predecessor, which simplifies the integration process. The EDX analysis clearly demonstrated the capability to systematically control the atomic fraction of aluminum in combinations of tungsten, copper, and aluminum. This proportion varied from 22% to 2% in nanoparticles, which had an average mobility diameter of 27 nm. These nanoparticles were composed of atomic clusters of the respective materials with an average size of 2 nm. Also, using two independent discharges the elemental composition of two-component nanoparticles can be precisely adjusted over the entire range by using two electrodes made of the same material. Additionally, HR-TEM coupled with SAED analysis revealed a high degree of amorphousness in the nanoparticles, indicating effective mixing of the components. These findings pave the way for the development of multicomponent nanoparticles with tailored properties, holding significant potential for a wide array of scientific and technological applications.