Influence of the synthesis media in the properties of CuO obtained by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method

Copper monoxide (CuO) was successfully obtained by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, using different conditions—in a solution without base, in a solution alkalinized with NaOH or with NH4OH. The powders were analyzed by thermal analysis (TG/DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy, UV–Visible spectroscopy, and scanning electronic microscopy. XRD results showed that CuO was obtained with monoclinic structure and without secondary phases. Thermal analysis and infrared spectra indicated the presence of acetate groups on the powder surface. TG curves also showed a mass gain assigned to the Cu(I) oxidation indicating that a reduction possibly occurred during synthesis. The high and broad absorption band in the UV–Vis spectroscopy from 250 to 750 nm indicated the coexistence of Cu(II) and Cu(I), confirming the Cu(II) reduction, inside the CuO lattice. It was also possible to confirm the Cu(II) reduction by a displacement of the Me–O vibration bands observed in the IR spectra at around 500 cm−1.