Colloidal Bismuth Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Uv-vis Absorption

Quantum-confined Bi structures (quantum wells and quantum wires) are currently being studied for their varies novel properties. We now pursue the next level of quantum confinement in bismuth, quantum dots. In this work, we present a technique for the synthesis of bismuth nanoparticles using an inverse microemulsion method. To prevent air-oxidation in the characterization stage, poly(vinylpyrrolidone) was used as protecting agent. Our characterizations reveal that single rhombohedral phase of bismuth can be formed with ultrafine particle in size by following this synthetic route. The optical absorption spectrum of the aqueous nanoparticle colloids shows an absorption band centered at ~268 nm.