Instant Synthesis of Cu₂O Nanoparticles by a Selective Ionic Exchange in Nanozeolite 4A

This study presents a novel method for synthesizing Cu2O nanoparticles by employing ion exchange within a modified nanozeolite 4A matrix. The nanoparticles had a consistent particle size, predominantly around 6nm, with a narrow distribution. Nanosizing of the zeolite was achieved through high-energy milling treatments, thereby enhancing the surface-to-volume ratio. A band close to 700cm-1 was observed in the FTIR spectrum, potentially indicating that zeolite downsizing was related to symmetric stretching of the Si-O bond postmilling. Furthermore, a distinctive band corresponding to Cu(I)-O stretching vibrations was identified at approximately 600cm-1. Additionally, optical absorption analyses of the UV-Vis spectrum revealed two characteristic bands attributable to Cu2O nanoparticles at 370nm and 470nm. These findings have led to advancements in resource use and promoted sustainable and environmentally friendly production practices.