Huelser T., Schnurre S.M., Schulz C., Wiggers H.
Institute of Energy and Environmental Technology, DE
Keywords: gas phase, nano particle synthesis, pilot plant scale
Highly-specific nanoparticles from the gas-phase provide promising properties for a large variety of applications as the size dependence of their properties allows to tailor materials for specific applications. Industrial nanoparticle production, however, is covered by cost-effective flame processes with high throughput. The quality of the resulting materials is limited and often agglomerates with a broad size distribution are formed. Highly specific nanomaterials, however, are synthesized in specific lab-scale reactors – often available in minute quantities. We designed a unique pilot-plant-scale particle synthesis plant enabling for three different synthesis routes using either a hot-wall reactor, a flame reactor or a plasma reactor. Depending on precursor and gas-phase composition, materials like metals, metal oxides or (doped) semiconductors are generated. The chemical composition of the nanoparticles can be adjusted to pure, doped, mixed and composite materials. Pressure, precursor concentration, and residence time can be varied to fine-tune particle size and morphology. The set-up provides ample opportunities for sampling and in-situ measurements and the reactors enable for the synthesis of significant amounts (up to kg/h) of nanoparticles without losing their specification. Therefore, we are able to produce sufficient amounts for first approaches in industrial processes.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2010: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 330 - 333
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Nanoparticle Synthesis & Applications
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3401-5