Au nanoparticles (NPs) and polymer composite particles with phase-separation structures were prepared based on phase separation structures. Au NPs were successfully synthesized in amphiphilic block-copolymer micelles, and then composite particles were formed by a simple solvent evaporation process from Au NPs and polymer solution. The phase separated structures (Janus and Core-shell) were controlled by changing the combination of polymers having differing hydrophobicity.
Three-dimensional (3D) assemblies of metal nanoparticles are promising materials for plasmonic materials. Metal nanoparticles have unique surface plasmon resonances, ranging from ultraviolet to visible light wavelengths, depending on their metal species, size, and shape. The arrangements and spacing of the nanoparticles also strongly affect the plasmonic properties. The microphase separation of block copolymers can create a nanoscopic periodic structure, where metal nanoparticle assemblies are arranged along the microphase separation structure. In this paper, we construct 3D Au nanoparticle assemblies embedded in the microphase separation structures of confined block copolymers, in the pores of inverse opals. Polymer-stabilized Au nanoparticles were synthesized, and submicrometer poly(styrene) (PS) colloidal crystals were prepared using a simple coating method. After molding a PS colloidal crystal with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), block copolymers and Au nanoparticles were introduced into the PVA inverse opal from solution. The inner nanostructures were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Back Cover: The image presents gold nanoparticles and polymer composite particles with phase‐separation structures. Gold nanoparticles are successfully synthesized in amphiphilic block‐copolymer micelles, and subsequently the composite particles are formed from gold nanoparticles and polymer solution using a simple solvent‐evaporation process. Further details can be found in the article by H. Yabu,* K. Koike, K. Motoyoshi, T. Higuchi, and M. Shimomura .
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