Hollow spheres of silver synthesized using polyelectrolyte capsules as microreactors

Ag/polyelectrolyte (PE) hollow spheres were prepared using PE capsules as microreactors and electroless deposition of Ag. The external layer of the PE capsule was found to have a great effect on the morphology and permeability of the Ag shell. A positive surface charge will form compact and continuous Ag shells whereas a negative surface charge will form expanded and discontinuous shells. After removing the PE, hollow spheres of Ag with different morphologies were obtained.