The level of dispersion within polymer nanocomposites has been a widely explored topic. Nanofillers have been shown to greatly improve and/or add a multitude of mechanical, optical, transport and other properties to polymers. To achieve such desired properties in a predictable manner, random dispersion of nanoparticles throughout the material is often preferred. In general, it is energetically favorable for inorganic particles to aggregate in a polymer matrix, unless interactions are screened by polymeric ligands coating the nanoparticle surface. Currently, the dominant methods of grafting–to or –from the surface of nanoparticles require chain end modification or specific polymerization methods that may not be suitable for all particles or polymerization methods.<br/>Here, we present a simple method to achieve dispersion of gold nanoparticles within polymer matrices by solution state photografting of benzophenone (BP)-containing random copolymers. A benzyl ether ligand that stabilizes gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in solution while possessing selectivity towards hydrogen abstraction and subsequent coupling with BP was designed. This method of graft introduction by ultra-violet (UV) light exposure allows for control over the dispersion state in the resulting polymer films, as illustrated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis). Additionally, we provide insight into the rather efficient mechanism by examination of hydrodynamic size with UV exposure. This general method may be a key starting point for the fabrication of intricately designed nanocomposite systems previously unobtainable.

Photografting random copolymers to nanoparticles for well-dispersed nanocomposites

249th National Meeting (2015)

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