Optical Properties of Ag Nanoparticles Embedded in Polymer Matrices
EMSL Project ID
16705
Abstract
Broadband plasmonic absorption has been exhibited in thin film Teflon AF matrices with embedded Ag nanoparticles. Plasmonic excitation occurs at a specific resonance wavelength for each embedded nanoparticle according to the size and shape of the nanoparticle. A broad range of absorption wavelengths was expected due to the varying sizes and shapes of the Ag nanoparticles. This broadband absorption makes these films appealing for many potential uses, including high-efficiency solar cells. However, a narrow distribution of the metallic nanoparticles is required for technological applications. This study is to determine the effects of nanoparticle size, distribution, concentration, and morphology on the absorption of light by Ag nanoparticles in Teflon AF and other polymer matrices. Nanoscale Ag particles have been embedded in a thin film Teflon AF matrix by vapor-phase condensation. Thin films were synthesized to thicknesses of approximately 60nm, with Ag concentration in the samples ranging from 15% to 65%. Ag nanoparticles formed a fractal network of various sizes and shapes within the Teflon AF matrix. A UV-Vis spectrometer was used to determine the absorption of each sample. High resolution TEM images must be used to determine the size of the Ag nanoparticles, distribution of the Ag within the polymer, and overall morphology of the Ag particles. HRTEM will also be used to study the metal-polymer interface.
Project Details
Project type
Exploratory Research
Start Date
2005-10-20
End Date
2007-01-13
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members