Preparation of size-classified PbS nanoparticles in the gas phase

We report on the synthesis of size-classified PbS nanocrystals by differential mobility analysis of a polydisperse aerosol formed by nucleation and aggregation processes in a furnace reactor. The sublimation temperature employed is below the stoichiometric evaporation temperature, thus enabling direct and simple synthesis by sublimation. The irregularly shaped and amorphous agglomerate particles ale then sintered in a second furnace, resulting in the formation of monocrystalline and quasispherical particles with sizes adjustable between 3 and 20 nm and a standard deviation of 1.13. (C) 1998 American Institute of Physics.