PRODUCTION OF COPPER NANOPARTICLES BY A NON-DISPERSIVE MEMBRANE NANOPRECIPITATION PROCESS

Abstract

This invention presents a novel method for producing elemental copper nanoparticles using a non-dispersive membrane nanoprecipitation process based on membrane contactors. Copper sulfate solutions circulate through a flat, hydrophobic membrane, while hydrazine solutions are fed to the other side. The hydrazine concentration gradient between the two phases promotes volatilization and transfer through the membrane pores, where it reacts with cupric ions to precipitate elemental copper. This invention opens a new approach to the production of metallic nanoparticles in general, with prospects for industrial application, primarily in the recovery of valuable metals from mining effluents or in hydrometallurgical processes.