Nanosized CuO particles via a supramolecular strategy

The synthesis of small CuO nanoparticles using cucurbit[7]uril as an encapsulating agent for the precursor (copper acetate) by utilizing a host-guest binding strategy, was investigated. The hydrophobic cavity of CB[7] has inclusion effects on the acetate ion in aqueous solution, as the cavity size of CB[7] is comparable to that of β-cyclodextrin. The driving force for the binding of guest molecules or ions to the CB[7] cavity is common;y accepted to be interactions such as van der Waals forces and hydrophobic interactions between the guest and the host. The results show that the interaction between copper acetate and CB[7] following the carbonization and gasification process of CB[7] is the important factor in the production of CuO nanoparticles.