In situ synthesis of PEDOT:PSS-Ag nanoparticle composites without acid catalysts

This paper reports in-situ synthesis of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate silver nanoparticle (PEDOT:PSS-AgNP) composites without an acid catalyst via a spontaneous redox reaction between silver nitrate (AgNO3) and 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT). To investigate the effect of solvent on the formation of PEDOT:PSS and AgNP, nitric acid, distilled water, and acetonitrile were prepared as solvent. PEDOT:PSS-AgNPs were produced successfully, regardless of solvent; however, high-quality PEDOT:PSS-AgNPs were formed in an organic solvent; acetonitrile. The effects of polymer additives, polystyrene sulfonate ions, and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) on the synthesis of PEDOT:PSS-AgNP nanocomposites were also investigated. Chemical and morphological analyses revealed that low weight ratio of PVP promoted AgNP nucleation, resulting in a size reduction and enhanced distribution of AgNPs. In addition, PVP reduced the binding energy, thus enhancing S-Ag bonding and PEDOT:PSS at the surface of AgNPs. Our results demonstrate that PEDOT:PSS-AgNP nanocomposites can be fabricated without an acid catalyst. A mechanism for the synthesis process is also proposed.