Polyol Silver Nanowire Synthesis and the Outlook for a Green Process

Abstract

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) have a broad range of applications including nanoelectronics, energy conversion, health care, solar cells, touch screens, sensors and biosensors, wearable electronics, and drug delivery systems. As their characteristics depend strongly on their size and morphology, it is essential to find the optimal and most cost-effective synthesis method with precise control over the size and morphology of the wires. Various methods for AgNW synthesis have been reported along with process optimization and novel techniques to increase the yield and aspect ratios of synthesized AgNWs. The most promising processes for synthesis of AgNWs are wet chemical techniques, in which the polyol process is low cost and simple and provides high yield compared to other chemical methods. Reaction mechanism is one of the most important factors in strategies to control the process. Our purpose here is to provide an overview on the main findings regarding synthesis, preparation, and characterization of AgNWs. Recent efforts in the polyol synthesis of AgNWs are summarized with respect to product morphology and size, reaction conditions, and characterization techniques. The effect of essential factors such as reagent concentration and preparation, temperature, and reaction atmosphere that control the size, morphology, and yield of synthesized AgNWs is reviewed. Moreover, a review on the novel modified polyol process and reactor design such as continuous millifluidic and flow reactors to increase the yield of synthesized AgNWs on large scales is provided. The most recent proposed growth mechanisms and kinetics behind the polyol process are addressed. Finally, comparatively few available studies in green and sustainable development of 1D silver nanostructures through the application of natural products with inherent growth termination, stabilization, and capping characteristics are reviewed to provide an avenue to natural synthesis pathways to AgNWs. Future directions in both chemical and green synthesis approaches of AgNWs are addressed.