Microwave-assisted shape-controlled bulk synthesis of Ag and Fe nanorods in poly(ethylene glycol) solutions

Bulk syntheses of silver (Ag) and iron (Fe) nanorods using poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) under microwave irradiation conditions are reported. Favorable conditions to make Ag nanorods were established and can be extended to make. Fe nanorods with uniform size and shape. The nanorods formation depended upon the concentration of PEG used in the reaction with Ag salt. The obtained Ag and Fe nanorods were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and UV-visible spectroscopy. Ag and Fe nanorods crystallized in face centered cubic symmetry. The method uses no surfactant or reducing agent and is greener in nature which could open a myriad of applications.