A highly efficient three-solvent methodology for separating colloidal nanoparticles

This study has established a three-solvent methodology for separating nanomaterials, such as monometallic nanoparticles, miscible and immiscible nanoalloys. After systematically investigating the separation methods in two-solvent and three-solvent systems, a three-solvent theoretical model has been proposed to thoroughly reveal the centrifugation mechanism of colloidal particles. PVP plays an important role in the formation of emulsion droplets as the key factor for separation. Based on the three-solvent model, a novel solvent system has been discovered, with low-toxicity solvents and high separation efficiency. This study can open a new path for the separation of colloidal particles in both research and industrial fields and further promote the development of functional nanomaterials in greener pathways.

Automated summary

This study has developed a new method for separating nanomaterials and proposed a three-solvent model to explain the centrifugation mechanism of colloidal particles. A low-toxicity solvent system with high separation efficiency has been discovered. This research is of great importance for the separation of colloidal particles and the development of functional nanomaterials.