Synthesis and Characterization of Ag@Cu Core/Shell Nanoparticles via Pulsed Laser Ablation

Abstract

This study explores the synthesis and characterization of Ag@Cu core/shell NPs through laser ablation in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and dimethylformamide (DMF) liquids. Employing a Q-switched Nd-YAG laser, we achieved controlled synthesis by directing the laser beam onto pure silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) metal targets immersed in DMSO and DMF, respectively. The two-step ablation method, using Ag nanoparticles as seeds, facilitated the creation of the core/shell structure with varying shell thickness. Detailed characterization was carried out and they provided insights into the optical properties, absorption peaks appear at the wavelength of 350 and 570nm, while the high absorption peak is at the wavelength of 410nm. The crystalline nature and phase composition of Ag was confirmed. The average size is around 30-50nm for Ag in DMF, 55-59nm for Ag@Cu in DMF, 23-70nm for Ag in DMSO and 22-60nm) for Ag@Cu in DMSO.