Photo-induced growth of silver nanoparticles using UV sensitivity of cellulose fibers

A simple method has been demonstrated to grow silver nanoparticles on the surface of cellulose fibers. The preparation is based on photo-activation of surface by ultraviolet (UV) photons, followed by chemical reduction of silver nitrate. It is found that the concentration of silver nitrate in the solution is not a determining factor, while UV intensity affects the rate of initial growth and determines the final concentration of the loaded silver. We explain the phenomena based on a model including the number of reducing sites on the surface of cellulose fibers activated by UV photons, and a release mechanism that causes a slow rate of dissolution of silver back into the solution.

► Here we use UV irradiation to make the surface of cellulose fibers reductive. ► This situation provides a self-limiting condition to form stable silver nanoparticles. ► It was shown that the determining parameter is UV intensity rather than Ag+ concentration. ► Grown silver nanoparticles on the cellulose surface are recognized by XPS, SEM and DRS.