Polymer/Metal Nanocomposites: Assembly of Metal Nanoparticles in Polymer Films and their Applications

We have developed a simple dry process to assemble metal nanoparticles in polymer films in two- and three- dimensions in multi-length scales. The vapor of bis(acetylacetonato)palladium(II) (Pd(acac)2) is reduced by polymers without additional reducing agents in N2 atmosphere at 180°C, and Pd metal nanoparticles are produced in the polymer films with excellent size uniformity and stabilization. We showed the self-assembly of Pd nanoparticles into selective nanodomains in block copolymer (BC) films to provide three-dimensional layer-by-layer arrangements and hexagonally arranged spherical nanodomains. In addition to this “bottom-up” approach for the construction of well-ordered polymer/metal nanocomposites, we have also developed a “top-down” approach that enables the assembly of Pd nanoparticles by UV photolithography. Properties of polymer/metal nanocomposites thus prepared have potentials for functional materials and fabrications of nanodevices by ensemble of unique properties of metal nanoparticles and polymers.