Synthesis of silver nanoparticles within intercalated clay/polymer nanocomposite via in situ electron transfer reaction

In this study, we present a new process for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using intercalated clay/polymer nanocomposites via in situ electron transfer reduction process. Clay minerals are first intercalated by amphiphilic urethane precursor chains (UAN) and nano-dispersed at hydrophobic monomer (styrene). AgNO3 crystals were added and mixed with UAN/styrene mixture to dissociate it not only by forming complex with silicate layers of clay minerals but also by making complex with polyethylene oxide chains of UAN chains. Radicals formed by UV-radiation caused reduction of dissolved Ag+ to silver nanoparticles (in situ electron transfer reaction) and copolymerization of clay/UAN/styrene mixture (radical polymerization) simultaneously, resulting in direct conversion of the solution to silver nanoparticle dispersed clay/polymer nanocomposite film without additional reduction process. Size and morphology of silver nanoparticles formed within silicate layers depended on the surface property of clay minerals, which could be confirmed by XRD and TEM measurements.