Synthesis and Measurement of Noble Metal Nanoparticles with Well-Defined Shapes by Electrochemical and Electroless Approaches

Abstract

This Thesis covers topics related to the electrochemical and colloidal synthesis of noble metal nanoparticles with well-defined geometric structures. The need for uniform and well understood nanoparticle systems is driven by multiple applications explored in the introductions of future chapters. The primary targets involve highly selective heterogeneous catalysts which support greener methods of chemical production which transform chemical feedstocks in high volume from petroleum sources. To reach these important targets, innovative approaches to novel shaped morphologies must be developed. To that end, this Thesis pushes forward the field of shaped nanomaterial growth for palladium nanoparticles in both electrochemical and colloidal approaches.