Apparatus and Method for continuous Production of Semiconductor Nanoparticles

 

Technology Description

 

This technology is a continuous-flow injection reactor and a method for continuous material synthesis, including the continuous synthesis of nanoparticles. The reactor features a mixing zone unit and a removable residence time unit coupled to the mixing unit. The mixing unit includes a series of inlets for reactant solutions to combine and form nucleated nanoparticles which flow through the residence time unit consisting of a single conduit or multiple tubes. The mixing and nucleation takes place within a temperature controlled environment, and numerous semiconductor compositions can be synthesized with this process.

 

Features & Benefits

 

  • Can provide continuous, scalable and rapid synthesis of size– and/or shape-controlled nanocrystals
  • Temperature controlled synthesis environment
  • Production of a variety of semiconductor compositions

 

Applications

 

  • Solar Cells / Photovoltaics
  • Optical and electronic applications
  • Space applications

 

Background of Invention

 

Nanocrystalline semiconductors have attracted a considerable amount of attention due to their unique physiochemical properties. Recent advances in nanocrystals are having a dramatic impact on the development of next generation low-cost and/or high-efficiency solar cells. Conventionally, small-scale batch processes have been used to synthesize nanocrystals. However, agglomerated, amorphous nanoparticles are obtained and high –temperature annealing may be required to achieve a desired crystalline structure. Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a new method and reactor for continuous production of materials such as nanoparticles.

 

 

Status

 

This technology has been successfully tested in the lab and is seeking potential licensees. Issued US Patent No. 8,801,979

 

Patent Information:
Title App Type Country Serial No. Patent No. File Date Issued Date Expire Date
Apparatus and Method for Continuous Production of Materials Utility United States 13/158,142 8801979 6/10/2011 8/12/2014 3/31/2032
Tech ID:
OSU-08-51
Contact:
David Dickson
IP & Licensing Manager
Oregon State University
541-737-3450
david.dickson@oregonstate.edu
Inventors:
Chih-Hung Chang
Hyundae Jin
Yu-Wei Su
Keywords:
Advanced Technology and Manufacturing Inst. (ATAMI)
Chemicals / Chemical Engineering
Electrical & Computer Engineering
Nanotechnology
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