(364b) Nanocomposite Particle Synthesis Using Switchable Ionic Liquids (SWILs)

Anisotropic nanomaterials with controlled morphology play a critical role in product manufacturing incorporating nanotechnology and in modern material chemistry. Anisotropic nanomaterials such as nanowires and nanorods often exhibit interesting properties that are critical for designing devices with desired functions, but their controlled synthesis still remains a grand challenge. Currently available solution-based processes including traditional ionic liquids are inefficient (poor control over the surface morphology, physical and chemical properties), use expensive heterogeneous templates, harsh reaction conditions, hence prohibitive. To exploit the potential of these materials for various applications, a controlled synthesis approach is highly desired. Recently, we developed a novel green synthetic strategy using switchable ionic liquids (SWILs) for the synthesis of nanomaterials. SWILs are mixtures of an alcohol and an amine base with an acidic trigger gas (CO₂, CS₂, COS or SO₂). Ease of SWIL synthesis and excellent control to turn on or off the ionic character of the solvent makes them ideal solvents for the synthesis of nanomaterials. Switch enable us the ability to dissolve high concentrations of precursors in a polar environment (SWILs) and then promote nucleation, growth, and isolation of nanoparticles (Figure 1). Synthesis of carbon rods with 20-100 nm thickness and 1-10 micron length using switchable ionic liquids (SWIL) and its unexpected humidity-driven water expulsion behavior will be discussed. The effect of chemical trigger (CO₂vs CS₂) used in the preparation of SWIL on the formation of nanomaterials will also be discussed.