One Pot Synthesis, Surface and Magnetic Properties of Cu 2 O/Cu and Cu 2 O/CuO Nanocomposites.

A series of copper-based systems containing two different nanocomposites (Cu₂O/CuO and Cu₂O/Cu) was synthesized by the egg white assisted auto-combustion route. This method was distinguished by the simplicity of its steps, low cost, one-pot synthesis process at low temperature and, short time. The characterization of the as prepared nanocomposites was carried out by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron micrograph (TEM), Energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) techniques. Surface and magnetic properties of the obtained systems were determined by using N₂ adsorption/desorption isotherms at 77 K and the vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) technique. XRD results confirmed the formation of Cu₂O/CuO and Cu₂O/Cu nanocomposites with different ratios of well crystalline CuO, Cu₂O, and Cu phases. FTIR results of the combusted product displays the presence of both CuO and Cu₂O, respectively. SEM/EDS and TEM results confirm the formation of a porous nanocomposite containing Cu, O, and C elements. The change in concentration of the oxygen vacancies at the surface or interface of both Cu₂O/CuO and Cu₂O/Cu nanoparticles resulted in different changes in their magnetization. Based on this study, it is possible to obtain nanocomposite-based copper with multiple valances by a simple and inexpensive route which can be suitable for the fabrication of different transition metal composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]