Sonoelectrochemical Synthesis and Characterization of Nanomaterials

Abstract

Recent advances in nano-dimensional materials have been led by the development of new synthetic methods that provide control over size, morphology, and nanostructure. The sonoelectrochemical method, as a new environmentally friendly strategy, which combines sonochemistry and electrochemistry, has been proven to be a fast, simple, and effective route for shape-controlled synthesis of nanomaterials. During the acoustic cavitation process, high temperatures, pressures, and cooling rates can be achieved upon the collapse of the bubble, which permit access to a range of chemical reaction space normally not accessible, allowing for the synthesis of a wide variety of unusual nanostructured materials. It is commonly accomplished by applying an electric current pulse to nucleate and perform the electrodeposit, followed by a burst of ultrasonic wave to remove the products from the sonic probe cathode. The shape and size of the nanomaterials can be adjusted by varying the operating parameters which include the ultrasonic power, current density, deposition potential, and ultrasonic versus electrochemical pulse times as well as the pH, temperature, and composition of the electrolyte in the sonoelectrochemical cell. Moreover, another setup that is the immersion of a conventional electrochemistry cell into a fixed position in the ultrasound bath is also introduced. Herein, we summarize the recent development of sonoelectrochemical synthesis and characterization of novel nanomaterials, including metals, semiconductors, polymers, and various nanocomposites. A brief look is also taken into the future enabling developments in this field.