In this study, synthesis of Au and Au/Ag nano-pigments has been investigated. The results showed that pH controlling agents (PCAs) (NH4OH or NaOH) play an important role on the physical properties of Au/Ag nano-pigments and inks. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns indicated that pure metallic phase is formed by NH4OH PCAs. Morphological studies revealed the formation of nanometric spherical particles. The smallest size is belonged to Au particles prepared by NH4OH PCA. Because of the comparable hue and saturation of synthesized metallic pigments to the commercial inks, the obtained samples have been introduced as a suitable candidate for ceramic ink jet printing for tiles.
Keywords: Au-Au/Ag nano-pigments, Ceramic ink jet printing.