Continuous-mode laser ablation at the solid-liquid interface of pelletized low-cost materials for the production of luminescent silicon carbide nanocrystals

We report on the fabrication of silicon carbide (SiC) nanocrystals using a continuous scanning mode laser for the ablation of pelletized SiC microparticles (NPs). As a major advantage, we propose the in-situ generation and collection of freestanding nanoparticles in an ethanol liquid medium and the use of cost-effective SiC targets in comparison with those commercially available or synthesized after multiple-steps. The SiC NPs exhibit luminescent properties under UV exposure and excellent colloidal stability for extended periods of time.