Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles using Pulse Electrolysis in 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium Chloride Ionic Liquid

Abstract

Ionic liquids are considered as a promising, alternative solvent for the electrochemical synthesis of metals because of their high thermal and chemical stability, relatively high ionic conductivity, and wide electrochemical window. In particular, their wide electrochemical window enables the electrodeposition of metals without any side reaction of electrolytes such as hydrogen evolution. The electrodeposition of silver is conducted in 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([C4mim]Cl) ionic liquid system with a silver source of AgCl. This study is the first attempt to electrodeposit silver nanoparticles without using co-solvents other than [C4mim]Cl. Pulse electrolysis is employed for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles by varying applied potentials from −3.0 V to −4.5 V (<italic>vs</italic>. Pt-quasi reference electrode) and pulse duration from 0.1 s to 0.7 s. Accordingly, the silver nanoparticles whose size ranges from 15 nm to ~100 nm are obtained. The successful preparation of silver nanoparticles is demonstrated regardless of the kinds of substrate including aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon paper in the pulse electrolysis. Finally, the antimicrobial property of electrodeposited silver nanoparticles is confirmed by an antimicrobial test using Staphylococcus aureus.