Data from: Characterization of self-assembled silver nanoparticle ink based on nanoemulsion method

A well-dispersed self-assembled silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) ink with high
purity was synthesized via AgNO3 emulsion prepared by blending an AgNO3
aqueous solution and a liquid paraffin solution of both polyoxyethylene
(20) sorbitan monooleate (Tween 80) and sorbitan monooleate (Span 80). The
ink remained as an emulsion at low temperatures; however, it produced
AgNPs after sintering at about 60 °C and showed a high stability at
nano-scale sizes (with diameters ranging 8.6-13.4 nm) and a high
conductivity. During the whole procedure, Tween 80 acted as a surfactant,
reductant, and stabilizer. Presumably, Tween 80 underwent an autoxidation
process, where a free radical of an α-carbon of ether oxygen was formed by
hydrogen abstraction. The mean diameter of emulsion droplets could be
reduced by decreasing water content and increasing the ratio of surfactant
and concentration of AgNO3 aqueous solution. Consequently, the
thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction result clarified the
purity of the produced Ag0. Dynamic light scattering and
ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy clarified that an increased concentration
of AgNO3 decreased the particle size.