Synthesis, characterization and thermal stability of SnAg and SnAgCu nanoparticles

The melting temperature and melting enthalpy of SnAg and SnAgCu (SAC) nanocrystals with diameters of approximately 30 nm was determined and, by means of Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) a depression melting temperature of 7–10 °C was observed for both systems. The new experimental results were compared to the predicted values as well as available datasets. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed to characterize the as-prepared and heat treated samples. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM and FE-SEM) analysis was carried out to study the morphology, microstructure and phase evolution of the as-synthesized particles before and after the heating process. [Display omitted] •SnAg and SnAgCu nanoparticles (∅ ∼ 30 nm) at the eutectic composition have been synthesized.•A melting temperature depression of 7–10 °C was determined for both systems by DSC.•Melting enthalpy values of the NPs are lower than the corresponding bulk alloys.•The role of tin oxidation on the aggregation of eutectic Sn-based NPs is presented.•Experimental results are compared to the predicted values and available datasets.