Synthesis of Cu2O particles by chemical reduction: Controlled morphology and size via pH and PEG for enhanced photocatalytic activity

This study presents a controllable synthesis method for Cu 2 O metal oxide using NaBH 4 as a reducing agent, with systematic investigation into the effects of pH and PEG on particle size and morphology. Cu 2 O was successfully synthesized at pH 5 and 9, where OH − ions influenced particle shape by interacting with surface energy. Increasing the PEG amounts reduced the particle size, enabling size control with the smallest size at PEG 5 g. Comprehensive characterization was performed to determine the valence band position and optical properties, based on which the energy band structure relative to the NHE was derived. These results indicate the photocatalytic potential of the synthesized Cu 2 O. These results not only demonstrate the photocatalytic potential of Cu 2 O but also provide a novel and tunable synthesis route to control both structural and electronic properties. This work offers an integrated framework for optimizing Cu-based nanomaterials for photocatalytic and other energy conversion applications.