Amphiphilic core–shell particles as carrier systems for metallic nanoparticles

In this paper, we used the PS-cored aggregates with PAA corona as a template for metal-block copolymer nanocomposites formation. Polyethyleneimine (PEI) could act as the linker between Ag ions (Ag nanoparticles) and PS-b-PAA colloids and the reducing agent in the formation of Ag nanoparticles. The product was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and UV–vis spectrum. The results revealed that the size and size distribution of the resulting silver nanoparticles prepared based on the copolymer were strongly dependent on the ratio of initial concentration of the silver ion solution to copolymer. The silver crystal was polycrystalline with a face-centered cubic structure, as confirmed by XRD. This work provides a simple route for the in situ synthesis of Ag nanoparticles on block copolymer colloids.