Potential Spark Erosion Approaches to Silicon Nanoparticles Production

Abstract

This article demonstrates potential approaches to the production of Silicon Nanoparticles (SiNPs) using spark erosion in forms of Wire-EDM (WEDM), Die-sink and Micro -EDM. Utilizing the data from research work on such conventional spark erosion approaches, a novel method of nanoparticle production called high pressure flushing spark erosion has been introduced in this paper. This is an automated prototype machining system that utilizes deionized water sprayed @ 0.8 MPa through a rotating copper tool, boring on boron doped silicon ingot workpiece. SiNPs comprising an average diameter of 50nm were generated with approximate productivity of 1.5g/hr. The results demonstrate that the process holds excellent potential as an industrialized SiNPs preparation method in terms of size and productivity.