M. Flores-Acosta

Characterization of Cds clusters in zeolite-A grown in alkaline solution

CdS clusters were synthesized in A type zeolite by reaction in alkaline aqueous solution at temperatures from 30 to 70 °C. The optical properties of the samples were studied by diffuse reflectance and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Their crystalline structure and morphology were studied by X-ray diffraction and by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. We found that at lower temperatures the CdS clusters are encapsulated in the zeolite cages. We compared the properties of these clusters with those encapsulated in the cages of zeolites X and Y, prepared by similar methods. CdS clusters smaller than the CdS exciton diameter are also formed outside the cages in the zeolite matrix. The size of these clusters increases with temperature producing a red-shift of the absorption edge in the optical absorption spectra.

Nanowire networks and hollow nanospheres of Ag-Au bimetallic alloys at room temperature

Due to their physicochemical properties, metallic nanoalloys have potential applications in biomedicine, electrocatalysis and electrochemical sensors, among many other fields. New alternative procedures have emerged in order to reduce production costs and the use of toxic substances. In this study we present a novel low-toxicity synthesis method for the fabrication of nanowire networks (NWNs) and Ag-Au hollow nanospheres. The synthesis process is performed at room temperature without any sophisticated equipment, such as special cameras or furnaces, etc. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the NWNs contain random alloys with a diameter of between 10-13 nm. The radius for the hollow nanospheres is approximately located between 70-130 nm. The absorption bands in the UV-vis spectrum associated with the surface plasmon in Ag-Au bimetallic nanoparticles are highlighted at 385 nm for the NWNs and 643 nm for the hollow nanospheres. The study was performed with low-toxicity substances, such as rongalite, ascorbic acid and sucrose, and showed high efficiency for the fabrication of these types of nanostructures, as well as good stability for long periods of time.