A Simple and Inherent Safe Mechanosynthesis Method for Producing Tin Metal Nanoparticles Dispersions

A method for the synthesis of Sn nanoparticles (NPs) is presented, whose technique is based on a reagentless comminution process, where bulky Sn metal undergoes a surface abrasion with release of zerovalent metal NPs produced by metal-ceramic balls collisions in a liquid medium embedding and dispersing the as-formed NPs. Two different techniques have been adopted and compared, according to the geometry of the pristine bulky metal. In a former case, a Sn metal precursor is shaped in foil form covering the surface of a magnetic stirring device, keeping abrading spheres in agitation in a liquid phase. In a latter case, the metal precursor, in form of spheres, is kept in agitation in a liquid phase together with the abrading balls, whose hits and friction with the Sn spheres lead to the formation of the corresponding NPs. Three different capping agents, one of which of natural origin, have been dissolved in the liquid phase to prevent NPs aggregation, with positive effects in long-term stabilization. The particles have been characterized for shape and diameter by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The technique here proposed may represent a promising method, in line with the paradigms of inherent safety, for the synthesis of stable Sn NPs dispersions as a valid alternative to Ag NPs in pharmacology and other biomedical applications.