Solution based rapid synthesis of AgCuO₂ at room temperature

Abstract

We report a single step synthesis of AgCuO₂ within minutes resulting in a polycrystalline, single phase product crystallizing in a monoclinic system. Chemical composition analysis has confirmed the stoichiometry of the product with oxygen in slight excess (∼0.1). Growth of this oxide involved cuboidal nanoparticles in the initial stages and needle-like microstructures in the final one, as shown by scanning electron microscopy. The novelty of the method lies in the stabilization of Cu in the 3+ state under ambient conditions in a rapid aqueous process.