Preparation and spectral characterization of polymeric nanocapsules containing DR1 organic dye

•DR1 molecules were encapsulated in to polymeric nanocapsules as an optical material.•Core–shell structure of prepared nanocapsules was investigated, using TEM images.•Total dye concentration for a solution consist of nanocapsule was determined.•Comparative spectral analysis of different solutions for DR1 molecules were done.

In order to provide necessary degree of freedom for organic dye molecules in optical applications and also for safety improvement, water insoluble Disperse Red 1 (DR1) dye molecules were placed inside the polymeric nanocapsules along with suitable surfactants and using controlled phase-separation method. TEM images were used to investigate the morphology of prepared nanocapsules. Total dye concentration for a solution consist of obtained polymeric nanocapsules was determined using decomposition of nanocapsules and a reference absorption spectrum. Absorption spectrum of a solution containing DR1 and dichloromethane was also compared with prepared nanocapsules at the same dye concentration, thereby a red-shift in absorption spectrum was detected.