Room temperature syntheses of surfactant-free colloidal gold nanoparticles: The benefits of mono-alcohols over polyols as reducing agents for electrocatalysis

Room Temperature Surfactant-Free Syntheses of Gold Nanoparticles in Alkaline Mixtures of Water and Alcohols: A Model System to Introduce Nanotechnology and Green Chemistry to Future Chemists and Engineers

“…Depending on the concept to illustrate, different variables can be investigated, and examples are given in Table . These results and trends essentially summarize the findings from previously published work. ,− The nanoparticles are typically in the size range of 10–30 nm.…”

“…In a broader context of critical teaching, the students are encouraged to reflect on the benefits of the synthesis presented here versus other syntheses they might be exposed to during their curriculum or in the literature provided; see SI-I. The pros and cons can be discussed in light of different criteria covering the final use of the nanoparticles (stabilized or not stabilized with capping agents), , viscosity, the resources (chemicals, equipment, infrastructures, energy), the level of skills needed, and the time required to perform the synthesis . For instance, it can be argued that size control can be relatively fine when surfactants are used, however the capping agents prevent in most cases any catalytic activity .…”

“…To add an extra degree of complexity and discussion, it can be stressed that on the contrary, ligands can bring new functionality to the catalyst. , The green aspects of the synthesis can also be discussed, e.g. use of simple solvents, , although their high viscosity can be a challenge to further process the nanoparticles . In this respect, the table in SI-III helps weigh the pros and cons of various criteria at stake when it comes to think in terms of scale up and commercialization.…”

“…Finally the students can reflect on what define an "optimal" synthesis, especially taking the Green Chemistry principles, practical limitations, and scaling into consideration. 25,29 Since the students have a limited number of resources (e.g., set amount of HAuCl 4 ), they are encouraged to pair with other groups and coordinate to produce complementary data sets to be combined.…”

“…use of simple solvents, 3,42 although their high viscosity can be a challenge to further process the nanoparticles. 29 In this respect, the table in SI-III helps weigh the pros and cons of various criteria at stake when it comes to think in terms of scale up and commercialization. Finally, as an opening, the recycling of the material can be touched upon.…”