Abstract
Fluorescent and highly transparent free standing thin films have been prepared using polysilane–silicon quantum dots nanocomposite (PSiQD) dispersed within cellulose triacetate (CA). Polysilane acts like a carrier that transports the silicon quantum dots (SiQDs) within the CA matrix. Extremely low, subcatalytic amounts of PSiQD are enough to transfer to CA the optical properties of both polysilane and SiQDs. Thin films obtained by solvent casting are mechanically resistant, highly flexible and show the characteristic high intensity fluorescent emission due to SiQDs. Also, the nanocomposite is UV photosensitive and could be easily converted to a hydrophilic material, compatible with the common paper. The PSiQD carrier is obtained in situ by microwave assisted coupling of chlorosilanes in heterogeneous reaction conditions. ATR-FTIR analysis was used to investigate the chemical structure within the bulk material. The presence of SiQDs and their content within the CA nanocomposite were proved by XPS. These results were further sustained by TEM and SAXS analysis. The wetting properties of the composite were probed before and after UV exposure by contact angle measurements. Thin films of such a nanocomposite material are designed for special opto-electronic applications that require processing by UV patterning and control of surface wetting properties.
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