Parametric Study, Sensitivity Analysis, and Optimization of Polyol Synthesis of Silver Nanowires

The effects of process parameters in polyol synthesis of silver nanowires (AgNWs) on the nanostructure morphology and silver nanowire yield were investigated in order to optimize yield. The AgNWs were synthesized in a batch polyol salt-mediated surfactant-assisted process. The AgNW morphology and yield were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effects of different factors including reagent concentration and molecular weight (MW), temperature, reagent solution preparation, argon purging and stirring rate were investigated. Based on this parametric study, the most effective and important factors on AgNWs yield were determined. A design of experiment (DOE) technique was used to evaluate the coupled effects of process parameters on yield.