Controllable synthesis of Ag/poly(o-phenylenediamine) hollow hybrids and their catalytic application

Abstract

Poly(o-phenylenediamine) (POPD) hollow microspheres with Ag submicrometre particles decorated on both inner and outer surfaces of shells as Ag/POPD hollow hybrids have been successfully fabricated through the reduction of AgNO₃ by ascorbic acid in aqueous solution containing POPD hollow microspheres. Poly(o-phenylenediamine) hollow microspheres with functional amine groups on surfaces of polymer shells are chosen as supporter for Ag particles. Ag/POPD hollow hybrids are characterised by Fourier transform infrared and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy techniques. Formation mechanisms involved have been proposed according to experimental results. Furthermore, catalytic activities of Ag/POPD hollow hybrids towards the reduction of 4-nitrophenol in the presence of NaBH₄ have also been investigated.

Keywords:

• Ag nanoparticle
• Conducting polymer
• Hollow structure
• Hybrid