Shape Control Using DMF

As it is previously shown, N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) can reduce Ag ions to the zero-valent metal, even at room tenq erature and in the absence of any external reducing agent, which takes place through the following reaction  

A basic difference between this reaction and the reduction by other organic compounds is that it proceeds at a meaningful rate even when performed at room temperature and in the dark. This is readily observed through yellow coloration of the solution, which deepens with time. This reducing ability under mild conditions points toward a larger tendency of this solvent for the reduction of Ag as compared to ethanol or other organic solvents. 

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