(439a) Metal Nanoparticle Morphogenesis and Stabilization Mediated By Amphiphilic Polymers

Metal nanoparticles 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 methodology for the synthesis in aqueous media of metal nanoparticles with controlled size and shape and exceptional colloidal stability is reviewed. 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 for gold nanoparticle synthesis and stabilization of PEO-based polymers with different end-functionality, and of poly(L-proline).

Alexandridis, P.; Sakai, T. Preparation of Metallic Nanoparticles. United States Patent 7,718,094; publication date: May 10, 2010.

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

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

Gkikas, M.; Timonen, J.; Ruokolainen, J.; Alexandridis, P.; Iatrou, H. Facile Aqueous Synthesis and Stabilization of Nearly Monodispersed Gold Nanospheres by Poly(L-proline). J. Polym. Sci. Part A: Polymer Chemistry 2013, 51 (6), 1448-1456.  DOI: 10.1002/pola.26517