Cu-Ni nano-alloy: mixed, core-shell or Janus nano-particle?

Nanoscale. 2014 Dec 21;6(24):14630-5. doi: 10.1039/c4nr05739b. Epub 2014 Oct 31.

Abstract

Bimetallic nanoparticles like Cu-Ni are particularly attractive due to their magnetic and catalytic properties; however, their properties depend strongly on the structure of the alloy i.e. mixed, core-shell or Janus. To predict the alloy structure, this paper investigates the size and shape effects as well as the surface segregation effect on the Cu-Ni phase diagram. Phase maps have been plotted to determine the mixing/demixing behavior of this alloy according the particle shape. Cu-Ni nanoalloy can form a mixed particle or a Janus one depending on the synthesis temperature. Surface segregation is also considered and reveals a nickel surface-enrichment. Finally, this paper provides a useful roadmap for experimentalists.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation
  • Copper / chemistry*
  • Materials Testing
  • Metal Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Metal Nanoparticles / ultrastructure*
  • Models, Chemical*
  • Models, Molecular
  • Nickel / chemistry*
  • Particle Size
  • Phase Transition
  • Surface Properties
  • Temperature

Substances

  • nickel copper alloy
  • Copper
  • Nickel