Continuous Nanoparticle Synthesis via Adjustable Plasma
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing nanoparticles lack control over shape, size, and composition, and are inefficient in creating novel nanoparticle/liquid solutions with desired physical, catalytic, and biocatalytic properties.
Innovation Solution
A continuous process utilizing adjustable plasmas and electrochemical techniques, where adjustable plasmas are created between electrodes and a liquid surface, allowing for the formation of nanoparticles of various compositions, sizes, and shapes, with simultaneous electrochemical processing, and the use of metal-based or non-metallic electrodes to control the plasma and electrochemical reactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional nanoparticle production methods are used, then nanoparticles can be produced, but control over shape, size, and composition is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying plasma power, gas flow rates, liquid flow rates, and electrode configurations to precisely control nanoparticle size, shape, and composition. Different plasma conditions (power levels, gas compositions) enable tailored nanoparticle properties while maintaining continuous production
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses dynamically adjustable plasma parameters and flow rates to control nanoparticle formation in real-time. The system can adapt particle characteristics during production by modifying plasma conditions and precursor delivery rates, enabling both precision and flexibility
2Productivity
If existing nanoparticle synthesis techniques are applied, then nanoparticles are produced, but the process lacks efficiency and economy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous nanoparticle production through a plasma-based system where liquid precursor flows continuously through a plasma treatment zone. This continuous process eliminates batch processing steps, improving productivity while maintaining consistent particle quality through stable plasma conditions
Solution Approach 2:
By adjusting plasma power, gas composition, and flow rates, the system optimizes both production rate and particle characteristics. The ability to tune multiple parameters simultaneously enables efficient production with precise control over nanoparticle properties
3Manufacturing precision
If plasma is used to treat liquid surface, then nanoparticles can be formed with controlled properties, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma system serves multiple functions: it activates precursor molecules, controls particle nucleation, regulates growth rates, and influences particle morphology. This multi-functionality consolidates several control mechanisms into a single plasma source, managing complexity while achieving precise particle control
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages complexity by controlling nanoparticle properties through parameter adjustments in the plasma environment rather than complex mechanical or chemical apparatus. Changing plasma power, gas composition, and flow rates provides precise control without requiring additional complex equipment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables the efficient and economical production of nanoparticles with novel properties, including specific sizes, shapes, and zeta potentials, suspended in a liquid, offering improved control over the manufacturing process and final product characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing at least one adjustable plasma (e.g., created by at least one AC and/or DC power source), which plasma communicates with at least a portion of a surface of the liquid
Implementation Method 2
At least one subsequent and/or substantially simultaneous adjustable electrochemical processing technique is also preferred
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates generally to novel methods and novel devices for the continuous manufacture of nanoparticles, microparticles and nanoparticle/liquid solution(s). The nanoparticles (and/or micron-sized particles) comprise a variety of possible compositions, sizes and shapes. The particles (e.g., nanoparticles) are caused to be present (e.g., created and/or the liquid is predisposed to their presence (e.g., conditioned)) in a liquid (e.g., water) by, for example, preferably utilizing at least one adjustable plasma (e.g., created by at least one AC and/or DC power source), which plasma communicates with at least a portion of a surface of the liquid. At least one subsequent and/or substantially simultaneous adjustable electrochemical processing technique is also preferred. Multiple adjustable plasmas and/or adjustable electrochemical processing techniques are preferred. The continuous process causes at least one liquid to flow into, through and out of at least one trough member, such liquid being processed, conditioned and/or effected in said trough member(s). Results include constituents formed in the liquid including micron-sized particles and/or nanoparticles (e.g., metallic-based nanoparticles) of novel size, shape, composition, zeta potential and properties present in a liquid.