THE INFLUENCE OF pH ON THE SYNTHESIS OF STABLE COLLOIDAL SOLUTIONS OF COPPER (I) OXIDE NANOPARTICLES

This paper investigates the synthesis of copper(I) oxide (Cu₂O) nanoparticles by reducing copper ions with ascorbic acid in the presence of polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a stabilizer. It has been found that pH is a key factor influencing both the concentration and the size of the nanoparticles. The electronic absorption spectra confirm the formation of nanoparticles exhibiting a characteristic surface plasmon resonance in the 300–350 nm range. The obtained data make it possible to recommend optimal conditions for the synthesis of stable Cu₂O colloidal solutions, which hold promise for photocatalytic applications.