Copper Oxide Nanoparticle Synthesis by Borate Precipitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simple, robust, and cost-effective method for synthesizing copper oxide nanoparticles.
Innovation Solution
A borate method involving the formation of cuprous ion and borate ion solutions, followed by precipitation of cuprous borate, filtration, drying, pulverization, and oxidation to produce copper oxide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional synthesis methods are used, then copper oxide can be produced, but the process is complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary complex steps from conventional copper oxide synthesis processes. By using a simplified precipitation method where cuprous ion solution reacts with borate ion solution to form cuprous borate precipitate, which is then converted to copper oxide, the process removes complex purification and treatment steps while maintaining product quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive reagents such as cuprous chloride and sodium borate as starting materials. These cheap, readily available chemicals enable the synthesis of copper oxide through a straightforward precipitation and oxidation process, eliminating the need for expensive specialized reagents or complex equipment.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional synthesis methods are used, then copper oxide can be produced, but the cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inexpensive reagents including cuprous chloride and sodium borate as starting materials. These cheap, readily available chemicals enable cost-effective production of copper oxide through a straightforward precipitation and oxidation process, eliminating the need for expensive specialized reagents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes reaction parameters such as solution concentration, temperature, and mixing conditions to maximize yield and minimize waste. By controlling the precipitation of cuprous borate and subsequent oxidation steps, the process achieves high production efficiency while maintaining low material costs.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional synthesis methods are used, then copper oxide can be produced, but the particle size control is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls particle size by adjusting reaction parameters including solution concentration, temperature, and mixing rate. The precipitation of cuprous borate occurs under controlled conditions that produce uniform fine particles, which are then converted to copper oxide nanoparticles through oxidation, achieving both size control and high yield.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary precipitation of cuprous borate before final oxidation to copper oxide. This intermediate step allows for controlled particle formation and size uniformity to be established early in the process, which is then preserved through the oxidation step, resulting in well-controlled copper oxide nanoparticle size.
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
The method enables efficient production of copper oxide nanoparticles with controlled particle size and high yield, addressing the need for a cost-effective synthesis process.
Implementation Method 1
mixing the cuprous ion solution and the borate ion solution, and precipitating cuprous borate
Implementation Method 2
oxidizing cuprous borate to produce cupric oxide or copper oxide. This oxidation may comprise using an oxygen enhanced flame
Data Source
AI summary
A copper oxide synthesis via the use of cuprous and borate ions is disclosed. A cuprous compound reacts with sodium borate to form a cuprous borate precipitate. Oxidizing a cuprous borate with an oxygen enhanced flame synthesizes copper oxide. The cuprous borate may be reduced to nanoparticle size via pulverization to produce copper oxide nanoparticles.