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Preparation of copper-poly(2-vinylpyridine) nanocomposites

Journal Article · · Journal of Physical Chemistry; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/j100156a016· OSTI ID:5235689
; ; ;  [1];  [2]
  1. AT and T Bell Labs., Murray Hill, NJ (USA)
  2. Polytechnic Univ., Brooklyn, NY (USA)

Ultrafine copper particles were prepared in a poly(2-vinylpyridine) matrix by the thermal decomposition of a copper formate-poly(2-vinylpyridine) complex. The steric bulk of the polymeric ligand precludes complexation of more than one pyridine moiety around copper and ensures solubility of the complex. At temperatures above 125C, a redox reaction occurs where Cu{sup 2+} is reduced to copper metal and formate is oxidized to CO{sub 2} and H{sub 2}. The decomposition reaction was studied by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and mass spectrometry. Copper concentrations up to 23 wt % have been incorporated into the polymer by this technique. The presence of the polymeric ligand induces the redox reaction to occur at a temperature 80C lower than in uncomplexed copper formate. Incorporation of the reducing agent (formate anion) into the polymer precursor enables the redox reaction to occur in the solid state. Films of the polymer precursor techniques, transmission electron microscopy, and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS).

OSTI ID:
5235689
Journal Information:
Journal of Physical Chemistry; (United States), Journal Name: Journal of Physical Chemistry; (United States) Vol. 95:3; ISSN 0022-3654; ISSN JPCHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English