U.S.-Germany Cooperative Research: Electrically-Assisted Flame Aerosol Synthesis of Nanoparticles

这项研究探索了电场在纳米颗粒火焰合成中的作用。最近的理论发展表明，电场可以改变颗粒的大小，缩小颗粒的尺寸分布。由于缺乏这方面的数据，气雾界对这种场对颗粒大小的影响产生了分歧。这项研究中提出的概念的证明可能会在生产更精细、更均匀的纳米颗粒方面带来重大改进。这项研究可以直接应用于陶瓷和半导体的制造，以及颜料和化妆品的生产。这项为期两年的合作研究包括对卡尔鲁厄大学的一系列学生/PI访问，该大学正在进行一个类似的项目，在气溶胶研究和最先进的设备方面有着良好的记录。由于集团的扩大和设施的改进，与德国集团的合作将大大提高成功的机会。

This research explores the role of electric fields in the flame-synthesis of nanoparticles. Recent theoretical developments indicate that electric fields can alter the particle size and narrow the distribution of particle sizes. The lack of data in this area has caused a division in the aerosol community over the effect of such fields on particle size. Proof of the concepts proposed in this research may lead to significant improvements in the production of finer, more uniform nanoparticles. The research could have direct application to the manufacture of ceramics and semiconductors, and to the production of pigments and cosmetics. The two-year cooperative study involves a series of student/PI visits to the University of Karlruhe which is carrying on a similar project and has a strong record in aerosol research as well as state-of-the-art equipment. Collaboration with the German group will significantly enhance the chance of success because of the enlarged group and the enhanced facilities.