Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles in Chitosan Aqueous System via Gamma Irradiation

The effect of chitosan concentration on the copper (Cu) nanoparticles synthesized using gamma irradiation as the source of reducing agent in aqueous system is studied. The total absorbed dose used was 50 kGy while the addition of isopropanol is crucial as scavenger of oxidation radical and to increase the role of reducing agent produced from the radiolysis process. Optical properties of Cu nanoparticles synthesized were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy. The pure crystal phase of Cu nanoparticles formed in chitosan matrix was proved using X-ray diffractometer (XRD). According to transmission electron microscope (TEM) images, all Cu nanoparticles produced are in spherical shape and their size are in the range of 6-10 nm except that for Cu nanoparticles synthesized in 0.3% w/v chitosan concentration which showed non-uniform shaped distribution. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis showed the presence of chitosan compound for sample of 0.1 and 0.3% w/v chitosan concentration. This study showed that the use of chitosan can protect Cu nanoparticles from oxidation of the environment. It is also found that, the size of nanoparticles increase based on concentration of chitosan used.