- Stage of development
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TRL 4 (tested in lab environment)
- Intellectual property
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Priority patent application filed
- Intended collaboration
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Licensing and/or co-development
- Contact
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Laura RedondoVice-presidency for Innovation and Transferotc@icmm.csic.escomercializacion@csic.es
- Reference
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CSIC/LR/024
Additional information
#Materials
#Metals and alloys
#Micro & Nanomaterial
Metallic nanoparticles with high electrical conductivity
New sustainable method for producing metallic nanoparticles with superior stability and high conductivity. Highly useful in conductive inks for electronic printing, radio frequency antennas, catalysts, conductive paints or coatings.
- Market need
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Most current copper nanoparticle synthesis methodologies require conditions non-environmentally friendly (reducing/inert atmosphere). Those that do not require these conditions and use low temperatures (<200°C) generate particles that are either too small and easily oxidizable or too large.
There is a need for a cheaper and more sustainable method to produce metallic copper nanoparticles that can be used for a variety of applications and that can be produced in a greener, easier, and more cost-effective manner.
- Proposed solution
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A new scalable synthesis method is proposed, using non-toxic chemicals, environmentally friendly solvents, and renewable materials.
The method uses continuous synthesis, facilitated by microwaves, reducing reaction timings, to obtain large quantities of copper nanoparticles with improved properties: stability against oxidation, reduced size, and high homogeneity in particle shape and size distribution. This allows for large-scale production of nanoparticles, overcoming the traditional challenges associated with copper oxidation and long synthesis times.
- Competitive advantages
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- Faster and more environmentally friendly methodology.
- Stability in atmospheric conditions, small particle size and size distribution, and high reaction yield.
- The nanoparticles obtained have a low oxide content, which improves their electrical conductivity.
- Large-scale production and uniformity.