Novel explosive method for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles

Abstract. The detonation of explosive materials creates unique and extreme conditions, which typically require expensive, specialized equipment to replicate and are far more time-consuming than simple detonation processes.^{1<\sup> These extreme conditions, however, can be harnessed for the synthesis of functional inorganic materials. Recent investigations into silver-based explosives have demonstrated the generation of silver nanoparticles during detonation, marking a significant advancement in the BANG (Bristol Accelerated Nanoparticle Generation) method, previously limited to gold.2<\sup> This solvent-free synthesis enables the creation of uncapped, heterogeneous nanoparticles, offering enhanced versatility for subsequent functionalization or application. Nanoparticle formation was verified using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), while their composition was confirmed through electron/X-ray diffraction techniques. [1]Jerry W. Forbes. Introduction to Shock Wave Physics of Condensed Matter, Springer Berlin Heidelberg, 2012. ISBN 9783642325359. doi:10.1007/978-3-642-32535-9_1. [2]Jan Maurycy Uszko, Stephen J. Eichhorn, Avinash J. Patil, and Simon R. Hall. Detonation of fulminating gold produces heterogeneous gold nanoparticles. Nanoscale Advances, 6(9):2231-2233, 2024. ISSN 2516-0230. doi: 10.1039/d3na01110k.}