Sonochemical route to nanoparticle synthesis
Researchers at Nanjing University have recently developed sonochemical methods for the preparation of nanoparticles with controllable morphologies. Ultrasound has become an important tool for the synthesis of nanoparticles. When liquids are irradiated with ultrasonic irradiation, ultrasonic cavitation will form. Ultrasonic cavitation is concerned with the formation, growth, and implosive collapse of bubbles. Ultrasonic cavitation produces a variety of physical and chemical effects, such as high temperature (>5000 K), pressure (>20 MPa), and cooling rate (>1010 K s-1), which could provide a unique environment for chemical reactions under extreme conditions. The researchers’ work has demonstrated that ultrasound is a fine method in preparation of nanoparticles with controllable morphologies.