Synthesis of Nano-Crystalline Materials in Open-Air Laboratory: A Case Study of Tobacco

J Nanosci Nanotechnol. 2015 Feb;15(2):1362-7. doi: 10.1166/jnn.2015.9231.

Abstract

The work deals with synthesis of nano-crystalline materials in open-air laboratory and in-depth investigation of the tobacco sample of one branded cigarette and its ash using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and associated techniques. It exhibits the presence of nanocrystals and nanorods of various oxides in cigarette ash. The structure, shape, size and composition of these nanocrystals and nanorods are explored. The energy dispersive X-ray spectra from different regions of the tobacco sample and its ash using high-angle annular dark field scanning/transmission electron microscopy mode are utilized to obtain elemental composition and their relative abundances. For a detailed distribution of different elements in the nanorods, elemental mapping using energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy is also presented. The results highlight the conversion of amorphous constituents of tobacco to nanomaterials on combustion at low temperatures, thus mixing up in the atmosphere.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biological Products / analysis
  • Biological Products / chemical synthesis*
  • Coal Ash / analysis
  • Coal Ash / chemistry*
  • Crystallization
  • India
  • Materials Testing
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Nanoparticles / ultrastructure*
  • Particle Size
  • Smoke / analysis*
  • Surface Properties
  • Tobacco Products / analysis*

Substances

  • Biological Products
  • Coal Ash
  • Smoke