A general strategy for synthesis of metal nanoparticles by a solid-state redox route under ambient conditions

A general strategy has been developed to synthesize metal nanoparticles by solid-state redox reaction under ambient conditions. A series of metallic nanoparticles, such as Ni, Fe, Sn, Co nanoparticles, and bimetallic NiCo nanoparticles were prepared by using inexpensive metal salts and sodium borohydride (NaBH4). The obtained Ni nanoparticles showed excellent catalytic activity toward the reduction of 4nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol. The protocol creates a novel and facile route for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles.