Core-Shell Metallic Nanoparticles for Oxidation Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for protecting metallic nanoparticles from oxidation in ink-jet printing face challenges, such as the formation of non-conductive coatings and the use of costly or environmentally unfavorable solvents, which affect the reliability and cost-effectiveness of printed patterns.
Innovation Solution
The development of multi-metallic nanoparticles with a core of a first metal (Me1) and a continuous shell of a second metal (Me2), where the Me1 core is protected by a thin Me2 shell formed through selective reduction at the nanoparticle surface, using an aqueous solution and stabilizing agents to prevent aggregation, and applied as an ink for printing with subsequent sintering at low temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a thin layer of protecting noble metal shell is deposited on preformed nanoparticles, then the stability against oxidation is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases due to formation of individual particles of second metal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary stabilization of the nanoparticle core surface with silica or silica-alumina before depositing the conductive polymer shell. This preliminary action prevents unwanted formation of individual metal particles during the coating process and ensures uniform shell formation, thus reducing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The silica or silica-alumina layer serves as an intermediary between the metal core and the conductive polymer shell. This intermediary layer provides a stable surface for polymer deposition and prevents direct interaction that could lead to particle formation, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process
2Manufacturing precision
If hydrocarbon based solvent is used for forming core shell nanoparticles, then the shell formation is improved, but the environmental impact and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the solvent parameter from hydrocarbon-based to water-based medium. This parameter change maintains the ability to form uniform core-shell structures while eliminating the environmental and health hazards associated with hydrocarbon solvents, thus resolving the contradiction between manufacturing quality and environmental impact
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 approach provides stable, conductive patterns with enhanced protection against oxidation, reducing production costs and environmental impact, while maintaining the conductivity of the printed metallic structures, suitable for various substrates including plastics and paper.
Implementation Method 1
a selective reduction method, which should take place only at the surface of the core particle
Implementation Method 2
essentially only Me1 atoms at a surface of the Me1 nanoparticles reduce Me2 ions to form an Me2 shell on the Me1 nanoparticles
Implementation Method 3
using an aqueous solution and stabilizing agents to prevent aggregation
Implementation Method 4
Me2 prevents oxidation of Me1 at temperatures up to 150 degrees centigrade
Implementation Method 5
applied as an ink for printing with subsequent sintering at low temperatures
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a composition including a plurality of multi-metallic nanoparticles each consisting essentially of a core including at least one first metal (Me1) and a continuous shell including atoms of at least one second metal (Me2). Optionally, the continuous shell of Me2 atoms protects the Me1 atoms from oxidation at all temperatures less than 150° C.