Nano-size metals exhibit novel optical and catalytic properties, and attract considerable interest in a range of applications, e.g., photonics, diagnostics. The morphology (size and shape) of the nanoparticles and their surface/colloidal properties are very important in the various applications. A patented methodology [1] for the synthesis in aqueous media of metal nanoparticles with controlled size and shape and exceptional colloidal stability is reviewed [2]. This methodology is based on designer polymers that can exhibit multiple functions on the basis of the polymer intramolecular and supramolecular organization. In addition to being water based, this methodology requires no external energy input and employs commercially available polymers, e.g., poly(ethylene oxide)-containing Pluronics or Poloxamers, resulting in low cost and potential environmental benefits. Recent results are presented on the use of PEO-based polymers with different end-functionality for gold [3] and silver [4] nanoparticle synthesis and stabilization. [1] Alexandridis, P.; Sakai, T. Preparation of Metallic Nanoparticles. United States Patent 7,718,094; publication date: May 10, 2010. [2] Alexandridis, P. Gold Nanoparticle Synthesis, Morphology Control, and Stabilization Facilitated by Functional Polymers. Chem. Eng. Technol. 2011, 34 (1), 15-28. DOI: 10.1002/ceat.201000335 [3] Sakai, T.; Horiuchi, Y.; Alexandridis, P.; Okada, T.; Mishima, S. Block Copolymer-mediated Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles in Aqueous Solutions: Segment Effect on Gold Ion Reduction, Stabilization and Particle Morphology. J. Colloid Interface Sci. 2013, 394, 124-131. DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2012.12.003 [4] Sakai, T.; Ishihara, A.; Alexandridis, P. Block Copolymer-Mediated Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Silver Ions in Aqueous Media. Colloids Surfaces A: Physicochem. Eng. Aspects 2015, 487, 84-91. DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2015.09.058

Nanometal synthesis, morphogenesis, and colloidal stabilization enabled by amphiphilic polymers

251st National Meeting (2016)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.