Solvent-Free Synthesis of Nanoparticles

This chapter focuses on the synthesis of nanoparticles applying mechanochemical and thermal methods through solvent-free approach. For mechanochemistry, substantial attention is given to ball milling and mortar-and-pestle grinding. The discussion on thermolysis/thermal decomposition covers (1) thermal treatment of precursor salts, (2) thermal treatment of precursor salts with capping agents, and (3) the use of microwave energy. In many cases, researchers have determined that solvent-free methods offer a more reliable and predictable means by which the physicochemical properties of their materials can be controlled with the choice of reaction conditions. The merits of these methods over using solvent entails stable, monodispersed fine nanoparticles that have found applications in various chemical, biological, and environmental fields.