Pulse and gamma radiolytic studies on the formation of Cd, Pd and Cu clusters in aqueous solutions

Investigations on the formation of Cd, Pd and Cu sols using radiolysis techniques have been carried out. The reducing properties of the Cd particles were confirmed by dissolving MV2+, N2O and O2. By using high intensity electron pulses we observed the formation of the highly stable (approx. 8 days) Cd particles that showed absorption at both 270 and 450 nm. In the case of Cu, the stability of the sol depends on the type of reducing radical used, such as formate and isopropanol. It has been shown for Pd and Cd sols that the presence of both the stabilizer and agglomerated particles play an important role in stabilizing the small clusters. (author)