Reduction of Metal Ions in Polymer Matrices as a Condensation Method of Nanocomposite Synthesis

Abstract

The colloid-chemical methods of nanocomposite synthesis basically involves chemical reduction of metal salts in presence of additives such as surfactants, ligands, polymers, etc. In this Chapter we focus on the chemical reduction routes that are frequently used to prepare the metal nanocomposites, including electrochemical and photochemical pathways. Several new approaches on the preparation of colloidal metals in constrained environments as in the reduction of transition metal salts in micelles, surfactant emulsions, liquid crystals, or polymerized vesicles are also described. Special attention is paid to various types of reduction agents as well as reaction conditions (temperature, nature of solvents, pH medium, concentrations of reagents, etc.). The chapter highlights the factors that influence the particle size and morphology, composition and structure of nanocomposites. The basic principles and mechanisms of nucleation and growth of nanoparticles are discussed in detail.